Gus makes the cut for top tradesperson title

An Erskine tradesman is one step closer to achieving his dream of securing a place in the final of a top competition.

Screwfix’s annual competition, Britain’s Top Tradesperson, saw more than 1,000 entries and Gus Cairney who runs Couple a’Tools has earned his place on the semi-final shortlist.

Gus will now be competing against other tradespeople to reach the national final at Screwfix LIVE, in September.

This will see one exceptional tradesperson walk away with the accolade and a top prize worth £20k, comprising of £10k worth of tools, £5k tech and £5k to go towards future training.

During the semi-final, Screwfix representatives will get to know Gus through interviews about his business, trade skills, customer service and ambitions.

Just ten semi-finalists will earn a place in the final.

He said:“It was actually my partner who nominated me, so to make it through to the semi-finals is a huge surprise!.

“I started out on my own ten years ago, with just a couple of tools and a van.

“Over the years I’ve seen my business grow to cover several trades.

“As a multi-tradesperson, I get to work on any number of jobs for my customers, which means no two days are the same.

“This variety is just one of the reasons I love my job.

“To make it through to the finals would be a huge celebration for me, especially as my own business will be ten years old this year too.”

Caroline Welsh, director of brand and marketing at Screwfix, said for the past decade, Britain’s Top Tradesperson has celebrated and rewarded the outstanding achievements of the UK’s tradespeople.

“This award is given to the best in the business,”she added.

“Those who demonstrate how they excel in their trade and are investing in the future of the industry.

“We are looking for phenomenal tradespeople who go that extra mile for their customers and ensure that every job is completed to perfection.

“I’d like to wish Gus the best of luck in the semi-final.”

Following the semi-final, the national finalists will head to Screwfix LIVE, in Farnborough, in September.