Three apprentices from the heating and ventilating industry are celebrating after scooping the top three awards at the UK final of one of the four Skill M&E competitions, SkillPIPE.
Winner Ross Fraser (centre) with (right) Matthew Moore and Greg Clark

Organised by SummitSkills, the Sector Skills Council for building services engineering, Skill M&E aims to find the UK's most talented employees in the sector.

Having already made it through the competition heats, entrants had to install and test a large pipe header system including pumps, valves and controls to test their skills to the limit.

Ross Fraser, employed by NG Bailey and trained by Bailey Engineering Academy, took first place after a closely judged competition.

'It feels really good to have won,' said Fraser.

'I wasn't really expecting to win. It was obviously tough for the judges because I've seen the standard of the work, which is really high.

'The competition was really tough and everybody put in a lot of hard work but it's a good way to find out your ability. I'd advise other people to enter, it's a great experience, something you can always take with you and you meet good contacts.'

In second place was Matthew Moore, employed by Wessex Building Services and trained by Southampton City College and BEST.

In third place was Greg Clark employed by SES and trained by the Leeds College of Building.

Held annually, Skill M&E brings valuable benefits to students, colleges and employers. Competitors gain recognition for exceptional skills, injecting dynamism and excitement into training, while employers enhance their business reputation and improve the skills of their workforce.

'I would like to offer my congratulations to not only the SkillPIPE winner but everyone who took part in this years' SkillPIPE competition,' said Neil Collishaw, head of competitions and awards, SummitSkills.

'All of the contestants showed real talent and demonstrated their skills in this practical test, but it was Ross who came out victorious in a very close competition. The standard of all the contestants was very high and we are pleased to be able to showcase the talent in the sector.'

The SkillPIPE competitions provide a fantastic opportunity for employees and students to be rewarded for their exceptional skills and abilities, they help drive high standards and skills development needed to turn competence into excellence.'

For more information and to view the video from the day go to www.skillmande.org.uk