A JOINER from Bewdley has reached the semi-finals of the annual Britain's Top Tradesperson contest.

Thomas Connolly, who works for Totally Modular Limited, will compete against tradespeople from across the country for a place in the national finals of the Screwfix competition, which will be held in Farnborough in September.

There were more than 1,000 entries for this year's contest, and just 10 semi-finalists will earn a place in the final and be in with a chance of winning a top prize worth £20,000, comprising £10,000 worth of tools, £5,000 worth of tech, and £5,000 towards future training.

Thomas said: "I love the industry I work in, which focuses on constructing modular homes, and I believe it’s important that young students are also able to learn these new skills too, which is something I feel passionately about.

"It’s great to have made the shortlist for Britain’s Top Tradesperson, as it really shows that Screwfix also recognises and celebrates innovative ways of building.”

During the semi-finals, Screwfix judges will get to know Thomas through interviews about his work, trade skills, customer service and ambitions.

Finalists will then face a panel of industry-leading judges.

Caroline Welsh, director of brand and marketing at Screwfix, said: "For the past decade, Britain’s Top Tradesperson has celebrated and rewarded the outstanding achievements of the UK’s tradespeople.

“This award is given to the best in the business. Those who demonstrate how they excel in their trade and are investing in the future of the industry.

"We are looking for phenomenal tradespeople who go that extra mile for their customers and ensure that every job is completed to perfection. I’d like to wish Thomas the best of luck in the semi-final."