TOM Hurst and Daniel Ford, two students who are completing their third year on the Modern Apprenticeship Programme at Worcester College of Technology, have reached the national final of the 2006 British Plumbing Employers Council (BPEC) skills competition.

Tom won the regional heat in pipework and Daniel, the regional heat in sheet leadwork.

James Wishart, the chairman of the BPEC presented Daniel with his award and Mick Tuff, from Joint Industry Board-PMES made the presentation to Tom.

They now face the final from which the Young Plumber of the Year will be named.

BPEC plumbing skills prepares apprentices for future career as plumbing operatives. The council aims to deliver world-class training and assessment services for building engineers.