TIME is running out for apprentices in Worcestershire to enter a trade award.

The search for the top trade apprentice has been launched by Screwfix, which has stores in Great Malvern, Evesham and Worcester.

The Screwfix Trade Apprentice Award 2018 celebrates the great young trade apprentices who are learning and earning in the county.

The annual competition aims to highlight and recognise the great work tradespeople do and this year's winner not only takes home the coveted title of Britain's Top Tradesperson, which will transform their business, but they also drive away in a brand new Mitsubishi L200 Warrior pick-up truck worth £33,000, courtesy of the award sponsors.

Screwfix will select the best tradespeople to face off in a regional heat and from there, 10 finalists from across the UK head to the national final in July, where they will compete in front of an esteemed judging panel consisting of industry experts.

Caroline Welsh, director of brand and marketing at Screwfix, said: “The award is only given to top tradespeople who can demonstrate that they go above and beyond in their trade.

"It’s for those who can show how they are adapting to change in the industry, have a positive impact on their community, invest in the future of the trade or show true professionalism in every job they complete.

"This is our biggest competition of the year, designed to showcase the fantastic tradespeople in the industry.

“It’s the ninth year we have run this competition and we want to continue to celebrate and reward successful tradespeople from all across the UK."

Entries are open until June 3, with regional finalists selected and competing later that month. In July the finalists will compete at the national final, with the overall winner being named Britain’s Top Tradesperson 2018.