A WYE Valley electrician is in the running to be crowned the nation’s top tradesman.

Antony Redding from Ross-on-Wye has been selected as a regional finalist in the annual nationwide search by Screwfix.

The 44-year-old is now one step closer to heading to the national final at Wembley after seeing off competition from tradesmen and women from across the West Midlands to make the regional run off in Aston, Birmingham, on Monday, June 26.

Eight regional finalists from across the UK will be selected to attend the national final for the prize of a new Toyota Proace or Hilux worth £32,000.

Antony, who trades under the name Antony Redding Electrical, thinks his high quality work, customer interaction and skills will help him to stand out from the crowd.

“As a sole trader it is such an honour to be put forward to the West Midlands regional final.

“My main priority when I take on a job is that every job is done to the highest of quality ensuring that every customer is 100 per cent satisfied with my service.

“This is such a prestigious award and would give my company great national recognition. I have worked hard over the last 25 years to get to this point in my career and hope my skills will bring me to the national final.”

Screwfix marketing director Graham Smith said: “We have been inundated with entries this year and as always, the standard is outstanding.

“This award is only given to those who dem­onstrate excellence in their business and dedication to the job.

“Being selected as a regional finalist highlights the great work that Antony is doing.

“Along with our other finalists, he has demonstrated a passion for the trade, a willingness to go the extra mile and to always leave customers satisfied.

“It certainly will not be easy to pick this year’s regional winner who will go on to compete at the national final at Wembley.”

Britain’s Top Tradesperson is a nationwide search to find and reward the best builders, helpful handymen, exceptional electricians, perfect plum­bers and more that keep Britain’s homes and businesses in tip-top condition.

To be crowned the regional winner, Antony will take part in a number of tasks to find out if he’s got what it takes to head to the national final in July.