A PONTYPOOL electrician has taken one step closer to being named the country's top tradesperson.

Louise Shepphard has seen off stiff competition from tradespeople and has become closer to winning the Screwfix Britain's Top Tradesperson award.

The accolade is a nationwide search to find and reward the "best builders, plumbers, electricians".

Currently trading under the name Shepphard Electrical, Ms Shepphard thinks her determination, passion and attitude will help her win the regional final this week.

Ms Shepphard said: “I’m over the moon to be a regional finalist. It is such a great competition and to get this far is fantastic.

"It is incredibly rewarding to be recognised for the hard work that I put in, and I’m determined to show my dedication to the electrical trade and my customers.”

Caroline Welsh, who is the director of Brand and Marketing at Screwfix, said: “The standard of entries for Britain’s Top Tradesperson this year has been outstanding. This award is given to those who demonstrate that they go above and beyond in their trade.

"It is for tradespeople who show excellence in how they are adapting to change in the industry, have a positive impact on their community and invest in the future of the trade, showing true professionalism in every job they complete.

"Being selected as a regional finalist means that we see these qualities in Louise.

“It’s the ninth year we have run this competition and we want to continue to celebrate and reward successful tradespeople from all across the UK that deliver quality work."

She added: "We look forward to seeing Louise compete against other regional finalists, and wish them the best of luck."

And Rob Lindley, who is the managing director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said: “Seeing the quality of this year’s regional finalists makes us incredibly proud to be part of this important competition.

"We can not wait to hand over the keys of a new Mitsubishi L200 Warrior to the eventual winner knowing it will be put to the best possible use - working hard to contribute to the success of another outstanding British business.”

The winner of the national final will get a brand new Mitsubishi L200 Warrior pick-up truck for their business.

Ms Shepphard will now take part in a regional heat in Newport on June 27.