Michael in running for the top UK tradesman is Perfect accolade

Michael in running for the top UK tradesman is Perfect accolade

4 September 2024

A DOWNPATRICK man is in the running to be officially named the UK’s number one tradesperson.

Michael Jones, a joiner and decorator, has reached the semi-finals of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2024.

Michael, 38, who owns Panelling Perfect, has more than four years’ experience working in the trade.

Michael showcased adaptability, creativity, and professionalism in the initial application, which secured him a place in the semi-finals for the national award.

Michael set up Panelling Perfect during the pandemic, due to needing more flexibility from his job after his son needed additional support.

With an eye for design and a gap in the market, Michael seized the opportunity to go self-employed, offering a service which includes consultation, interior design, carpentry and decorating.

Building everything from scratch, from the branding to the website, Michael has established a big social media following to take Panelling Perfect to the next level. 

Alongside hundreds of happy customer reviews, Michael been shortlisted for several industry awards and now hopes to expand his business by recruiting staff. 

Now he will compete against 26 other top tradespeople from across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, for a chance to be shortlisted as a finalist.

If Michael is successful, he will become one of just 10 finalists to take part in the in-person final to be held at Screwfix LIVE, on September 27 when a panel of industry experts will put each tradesperson through their paces before selecting this year’s overall champion.

The winner will be crowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2024 and take home a fantastic trade bundle made up of tools, tech and training worth £20,000.

Michael said: “To receive the call that I’d made it to the semi-finals of the Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2024 was unbelievable. I never thought I’d get this far to be honest.

“Reaching the national final would be such a great achievement, especially when you look at the calibre of the other tradespeople I’m up against.

“I hope my passion for joinery and decorating shines through and that my commitment to the trade, despite the many obstacles I have faced, is enough to secure me a place in the final.”