The Test The Trades challenge kicks off at building show Interbuild 2007 from October 28 - November 1.
Armed with trademen tools and wits, teams of apprentice heating and plumbing engineers, builders, floorers and roofers will gather at the Birmingham's NEC to claim the title of Britain's Most Skilful Trade.

Test The Trades will be hosted by Big Brother winner and celebrity brickie, Craig Phillips.

The show's contest will include practical against the clock challenges and question rounds. The winning team will win prizes for their college.

'We're delighted to have Craig Philips involved in Test The Trades for the second year running. Craig, a bricklayer by trade, opened a Building Skills Centre in Liverpool a couple of years ago - and ran his own construction company for 10 years, employing 30 tradesmen, prior to that. He understands the real life issues, which makes him an obvious face to host Test The Trades', said Gordon Thomas, Interbuild's event director.

Interbuild attracts over 1,100 exhibitors and 44,436 buying visitors.

'As professional trade skills become scarcer and harder to replace, there is a responsibility at all levels of the industry to keep the issue of skills shortage firmly on the national agenda. Test The Trades is a celebration and recognition of the important skills of today's trainees - tomorrow's professional tradesmen,' said Gordan Thomas.

To support your trade at the NEC, Birmingham, book a place at www.interbuild.com