THE search for Britain’s top tradesperson is under way.

Launched this month, Screwfix is hoping to find the best builders, electricians, carpenters and plumbers in south-west Surrey and north and east Hampshire.

The annual competition aims to highlight and recognise the great work tradespeople do in the region.

This year’s winner will not only take home the coveted title of Britain’s Top Tradesperson, which will transform their business, but they will also drive away in a new Mitsubishi L200 Warrior pick-up truck worth £33,000.

Screwfix, which has a store in Farnham, will select the best tradespeople to face-off in a regional heat. From there, 10 finalists from across the UK will head to Wembley Stadium for the national final in July, where they will compete in front of an esteemed judging panel consisting of industry experts.

Caroline Welsh, director of brand and marketing at Screwfix, said: “The award is only given to top tradespeople who can demonstrate that they go above and beyond in their trade. It’s for those who can show how they are adapting to change in the industry, have a positive impact on their community, invest in the future of the trade or show true professionalism in every job they complete.

“This is our biggest competition of the year, designed to showcase the fantastic tradespeople in the industry.

“It’s the ninth year we have run this competition and we want to continue to celebrate and reward successful tradespeople from all across the UK that deliver quality work, often without gaining recognition they deserve.”

Entries are open until June 3, with regional finalists competing later that month. In July, the finalists will compete at the national final.