A BUILDER from Stanford-le-Hope is bidding to be the best in his profession in a nationwide search for Britain’s Top Tradesman.

Mick Dodkins, 45, from Hardie Road, has made it through to the Eastern heat in the Screwfix sponsored competition, and has already seen off competition from tradesmen and women across the region.

Mick, who trades under the name Mick D Construction, will compete against four other finalists from the East of England, but says his passion, customer service and attention to detail puts him in a good position moving forward in the competition.

He said: “When I got the call that I was through to the regional final I was delighted!

“I’m really looking forward to the judging day and hope to do my best for builders everywhere by getting through to the final.

“I have been in the trade for 30 years. I have trained lots of apprentices over the years, including three brothers, two of which have gone on to set up their own businesses and the other is now at college.

“The key to my success is that I always arrive when I say I will and make sure to keep my customers up-to-date as the work progresses.”

Screwfix marketing director John Mewett said: “He has demonstrated his willingness to go the extra mile to get the job done.”

The heat in the East will take place at the Peterborough Screwfix store on October 21. The winner will get a Toyota Proace van worth £27,000.