The SkillPLUMB 2014 competition has started its search for the UK's best apprentice plumber.

During the competition, which is organised by the Joint Industry Board for Plumbing Mechanical Engineering Services (JIB-PMES), entrants will be judged on a series of challenging practical tests in a bid to be named this year’s SkillPLUMB champion.

The event has been designed to promote and showcase high standards and skills across the plumbing industry. Between April and June there will be a number of regional events across the UK, and those who score most highly will progress to a UK final held in November at the prestigious Skills Show.

Competitors may have the chance to represent their country and compete at international level at future WorldSkills events.

Angela Gridley, general manager of JIB-PMES, said: “Skills competitions are a prime means of showcasing skills and promoting professionalism across the industry and we look forward to the excellent standards we’ll be witnessing from competitors this year.”