THE title of best air conditioning and refrigeration engineer in the UK has been judged to be Simon Dawes, who took first place in the UK's SkillFRIDGE 2009 competition.
The skills of acr engineers across the UK were put to the test at the 2009 final hosted at South Birmingham College in July 21-23.

Dawes' top skills, demonstrated in practical and theoretical tests in numerous heats, succeeded in him beating competitors to win judges over. He is trained by City of Bath College and employed by Total Environmental based in Bridgewater.

Dawes said: 'I'm really pleased. It was great to get the opportunity to work alongside such quality competitors and I've made some good friends along the way. I am impressed with how well-run the competitions are. They're a great way to show the top skills in our industry and I'm very glad I took part. I'd like to thank Total Environmental and my college - I couldn't have done this without their support.'

The 23 year-old was awarded a glass trophy, £1,000 worth of skills training and £300 for new tools.

Second place went to Stuart Millar, who is trained by South Eastern Regional College and works for Shilliday Refrigeration. Stephen Morley took third place. Morley is trained by City of Bath College and employed by Cotswold Vale Refrigeration.