James Windle, a former supermarket worker from Salford, has beat thousands of applications to bag his dream job as Master Model Builder, at Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester.
The coveted role, one of only 24 in the world, saw the country’s most talented LEGO® fanatics apply in their masses – with room for only one to be crowned Master Model Builder.
James, who holds a degree in Fashion Design and has worked in a supermarket for the past eighteen years, went head-to-head with other successful applicants during a live build-off event, and wowed judges with his recreation of Manchester’s famous Pride Stage. Hopefuls were put through their paces by Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester’s toughest critics – the attraction’s very own Creative Crew aged just six to ten years old – to which James proved to be a huge hit.
The ever-creative team at Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester arranged a surprise visit to James’ home to deliver the good news – which involved a knock on the door from a life-size LEGO® character.
Speaking on his dream role, James said: “I still can’t believe I’m actually a Master Model Builder – it really is a dream come true. I’ve been obsessed with LEGO® since I was little, and have been creating weird and wonderful builds since before I can remember, so when I saw the role advertised, I knew I had to apply. I even have a LEGO® mini figure tattooed on my arm!
“I can’t wait to inspire our next generation of Master Model Builders, and teach them that they can do anything they put their minds to.”
The job will see James tasked with constructing builds around the attraction, including mini-land, an interactive city containing over 1.5 million bricks, curate exhibitions, and mentor and inspire children in the creation of their very own model masterpieces.
Jenn McDonough, General Manager Manchester Cluster, Merlin Entertainments, commented: “We had thousands of applicants apply for the role – as you can imagine, it’s incredibly sought-after.
“We chose James because he’s absolutely perfect for the job – he’s incredibly creative, talented, outgoing and patient, and the kids love him, of course! We’re delighted to welcome James into the Merlin family, and I can’t wait to see him inspire families for years to come.”
