AN electrical engineer from Banwell has 'nailed it' by securing a semi-final place as Screwfix searches for its Top Tradesperson of 2024.

Richard Pullan, 39, demonstrated a dedication and professionalism within the electrical engineering field in his application which placed him ahead of thousands of other applicants to reach the next stage in this national competition.

Mr Pullan, who runs his own business, PB Design and Developments, is now among 27 skilled tradespeople who have been shortlisted for this award.

Before entering the trade, Mr Pullan served over a decade as a telecommunications operator for The Royal Corps of Signals in the army.

His passion for electrical works was sparkedPB Design and Development, and his work has included crucial installation work for hospitals and the London Underground.

Mr Pullan also plays an active role in the training of four new service engineers and contributes significantly to his community through his investment in charity work.

He recently helped establish two bases for Reset WSM, a youth community outreach programme that provides alternative forms of education for children and young people.

He is now facing 26 other top tradespeople from across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, competing for the chance to be shortlisted as a finalist.

Should he be successful, Mr Pullan will be placed among just 10 finalists competing in person at Screwfix LIVE on Friday September 27. 

Here, a select panel of industry experts will put the tradespersons through their paces, evaluating their skills and ultimately crowning their champion for the Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2024.

The winner will be taking home a stunning trade bundle made up tools, tech, and training, worth a £20,000.

Mr Pullan said: “To receive the call that I’d made it to the semi-finals was unbelievable. Reaching the national final in September would be such a great achievement, especially when you look at the calibre of the other tradespeople.

“I hope my passion for electrical works shines through and that my dedication to helping young people to learn new skills is enough to secure me a place in the final.”

The competition, now in its 15th year, continues to celebrate the nation’s tradespeople, acknowledging both their hard work and the continued impact this has on local communities.

Screwfix marketing director Jack Wallace said: “The nation’s tradespeople are often unsung heroes, working tirelessly day in and day out with the upmost passion and dedication. Our long-running national award aims to shine a light on the very best of them, recognising the outstanding work tradespeople deliver and the impact they have within their communities.

“Once again we’ve been blown away by the strength of the applications we’ve received for Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2024. Each of our semi-finalists has already proved themselves as an ambassador for their trade and I wish them all the very best of luck as they look to gain a place in September’s national final.”