ENTERPRISING pupils were swinging from the rafters when they had a go at roofing in a local exhibition.

Aspiring roofers from Withins School, Breightmet were keen to see the type of work on offer in the industry.

They mingled with roofing contractors and manufacturers at an exhibition, staged by the North West Regional Association of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC).

It was held at the Jarvis International Hotel, Blackrod.

The exhibition was part of the North West Region's AGM and included a presentation to their 100th Member, a Cheshire company called Stockport Roofing Ltd.

Construction is Britain's biggest industry, responsible for eight per cent of Gross Domestic Product.

Yet, it lacks new recruits especially within the roofing industry where only 200 new operatives are joining a year instead of a recommended 2000.

NFRC President Tony McCarthy said: "The opportunities are open to young people from all walks of life who wish to proceed either as a tradesman or in administration or management.

"Many tradesmen have progressed to running their own companies with considerable success."

Trainee roofing operatives were also present from Bolton College where they are studying NVQs in the different roofing disciplines.

They were on hand to help the 50 school pupils practise on the working rigs.

Tim Taylor Senior Co-ordinator of Bolton College said: "People do not realise the skills involved in being a roofer.

"You can make a career out of it and not just by working on the roof. We train buyers and sales people as well."

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the NFRC were on hand to give advice.

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