Competition among construction trainees is growing, according to SkillBuild.

A report by ConstructionSkills found a 19% increase in entrant numbers vying for industry accolades.

The organisation said this shows employers are identifying the benefits of skilled trainees - particularly in the current climate to provide businesses with a competitive edge.

Competitions Manager for SkillBuild, Heather Bliss, said: "With 1,323 compared to 1,101 trainees that entered the heats last year it is fantastic to see so many young people entering this year's competition

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"We have seen some very talented and skilled competitors at the regional heats and now the top competitors are preparing for the national final."

The highest scoring construction trainees from across the country and will now go into the national final which is being held in Scotland 7-9 October.

Martin O'Brien, Managing Director of Raphael Contracting Ltd, entered, Sean Crossan, in this year's SkillBuild.

He said: "SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity for both my apprentice and for my company.

"As seen previously the competition really helps apprentices develop their skills and the recognition of the high quality workmanship adds to a company’s reputation and sets you apart from the rest, which is particularly important in the current climate."

National winners from this year’s competition could then be in with a chance of competing in the 2011 or 2013 international WorldSkills competitions.

WorldSkills is held every two years, with this year’s competition being held in Calgary, Canada in September and then in London in 2011.

(PR/BMcC)