The Institute of Builders Merchants (IoBM) has announced the merchant teams that will be taking part in this year’s Practical Skills Challenge Event.

On 18 February, teams will compete across a variety of hands-on challenges that cover a range of skills including carpentry, paving, painting, brickwork and electrics.

This year, the competing teams will be from Ridgeons, EH Smith, Didac, Parker Building Supplies, Howarth Timber & Building Supplies, Jackson Building Centres and Travis Perkins. All participants will be rewarded with one year’s free student membership to the IoBM. Prizes for the best work will be awarded by tutors from Cambridge Regional College, where the event will take place.

Steve Sellick, president of the IoBM, said: “It is a great team-building exercise, where participants gain a variety of skills that help to build their knowledge of the industry, as well as helping them to grow in confidence. We wish all the teams the best of luck and are looking forward to a great day!”