The Institute of Builders Merchants (IoBM) Practical Building Skills Challenge, in conjunction with the Builders Merchant Federation (BMF), took place on Wednesday 17th February at Leeds College of Building. With 10 teams from both independent and national merchant chains taking part and new support from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), this year’s skills challenge was the biggest and most successful to date.
As the video shows, each of the teams were pitted against the clock and each other to complete a number of building tasks across four different disciplines: block paving, constructing a stud wall, tiling and bricklaying. Their efforts were then judged by the college’s teaching staff and the winners announced at the end of the day.
The winner of the 2016 Skills Challenge was Jewson’s Hull branch, showing a great level of competency in all of the application areas. Each of the winning team members received a trophy and a £75 voucher. Very close runners up this year were the team from Hevey Building Supplies, each of whom also received a trophy and a £50 voucher. In addition, everyone who participated received a free year’s membership to the IoBM. All of the prizes were generously donated by the Worshipful Company of Builders’ Merchants (WCoBM).
For more information on the Institute of Builders Merchants, vist www.iobm.co.uk or email admin@iobm.co.uk
