Builders' merchant Jewson, has begun a quest to find the construction industry's freshest talent in its new Young Tradesperson of the Year competition.

The award is for people under 30 years of age, who work full or part-time in a skilled trade in the construction industry, and is open to apprentices as well as those who are already qualified.


As well as the title of 'Young Tradesperson of the Year', the winner will receive a holiday to Barcelona, voted one of the top places for travel in 2015, plus tickets for a football match at Camp Nou and £1,000 worth of tools.


To be in with a chance of winning, entrants must explain why they are worthy of the title 'Young Tradesperson of the Year' in no more than 100 words at jewsontools.co.uk/youngtradesperson before the deadline of 29 February 2016.


A shortlist selected by an industry panel will be announced online during National Apprenticeship Week (14 to 18 March) and the overall winner revealed at the end of March.


Jewson has also created Foundation Plus, a cash account for newly qualified tradespeople and apprentices offering exclusive discounts, additional training and advisory services. The Foundation Plus account supports the next generation of the construction industry to get the right products and tools for the job.


To launch the 'Young Tradesperson of the Year' competition, Jewson has created a video with comedian Andrew Ryan where the Irish-born funny man tries his hand at some industry skills, such as plastering a wall, tiling and putting up a shelf, with varying degrees of success. 


"There's so much talent in the construction industry, but sometimes the skills of the UK's trades, and especially the work of newcomers, goes unnoticed," said David Fenton, marketing director at Jewson.


"We want to change that and celebrate all the great talent out there, so if you think you’re the best brickie, the perfect plumber or the shiniest spark, then we want to hear from you. The construction industry continues to suffer from a skills shortage, so we also hope that these awards will show the great work that goes on in our sector, and hopefully attract more people to it."


Jewson Young Tradesperson of the Year is supported by Wavin's above and below ground drainage brand, Osma.