In a ceremony organised by the Livery Companies Skill Council (LCSC) and hosted by the Worshipful Company of Glaziers, the certificates were awarded on February 26 by the Rt Hon Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Charles Bowman.

David Gammage of Gravesend, John Hamilton Murray of Hull and Tyrone Tash of Uxbridge each received certificates, which are only bestowed on the very best from within the plumbing and heating industry.

Mr Gammage EngTech MCIPHE RP RHP is currently employed by C Watkins Plumbing as a maintenance and senior service engineer. Having worked his way up to a senior position and mentored four apprentices, he said: “It’s a great honour. It’s really nice to have 18 years' worth of hard work and experience recognised in this way.”

Mr Hamilton Murray EngTech MCIPHE RP has 30 years' industry experience and is currently a subject matter engineer (water) for Sodexo Facilities. Having initially embarked on a military career, Mr Hamilton Murray now combines his plumbing skills with a specialism in chemicals, and is currently designing industry specific training on microbiological and corrosive contamination of water systems.

He said: “I am proud to say I am a member of CIPHE and through the Master Plumber Scheme I have gained a greater understanding of what the Institute is achieving. This is clearly seen from the revised and improved technical platforms and knowledge platforms. I have found that I have a greater awareness of my own influence and that of those I share a platform with as a Master Plumber.”

Mr Tash EngTech MCIPHE RP manages his own business, 24-7 TT Plumbing & Heating, specialising in emergency call outs. With 13 years of experience in the industry, he is currently training an apprentice and really enjoys the challenges and variety of jobs he has to deal with as an emergency engineer.

He commented: “Looking back, it’s been a really long journey. You don’t realise how far you have come and what you have achieved until you get to the end. To be a Master Plumber is fantastic.”