A WIRRAL plumber is one step closer to being crowned the champion of the trade after reaching the semi-finals of a prestigious competition. Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2022.

Steve Lewis has secured a place in the semi-final of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2022 following an application that highlighted his passion for the trade,dedication, and commitment to going above and beyond for his customers and colleagues.

The 54-year-old from Wallasey has been in the trade for more than 35 years and owns HATS Heating & Technical Services.

He was nominated for the competition by his daughter and employee, Hannah.

In the 13th year of the prestigious award, Steve aims to join the Top Tradesperson Hall of Fame alongside reigning champion Dan Lloyd, an electrician from Brighton.

Steve said: "I'm really pleased to get through to the semi-finals of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2022, particularly knowing how many incredible tradespeople I would have been up against.

"I aim to impress the judges with my skills, expertise, and my passion for the trade. To reach the national final in September would be a dream come true and I’d love the opportunity to champion the construction industry on behalf of my peers."

Together with over 30 other top tradespeople from across the UK and Republic of Ireland, Steve will now battle it out to be shortlisted as a top 10 finalist.

The shortlisted candidates will participate in a one-day final event at Screwfix LIVE, back in Farnborough for the first time since 2019, on September 23.

The overall winner will be crowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2022 and take home the ultimate £20,000 prize bundle comprising tech, tools, and training.

Jack Wallace, marketing director at Screwfix, said: "As a champion of the trade, we know that there are many exceptional tradespeople out there who are going the extra mile for their customers, producing work to an incredibly high standard and ultimately being fantastic role models for the next generation of tradespeople.

"I'd like to congratulate all our semi-finalists on getting this far. I wish them all the best of luck and look forward to meeting our national finalists in September!"