An Epsom decorator and interior designer is one step away from the final of a competition to find Britain's best tradesperson.

Christina Valentine, who trades under the name Tradeswoman Extraordinaire, has already seen off competition from around the region to secure her place at the London and South East final on June 26.

She said: “I’m over the moon to be a regional finalist; it’s such a great competition, and to get this far is fantastic.

"It’s incredibly rewarding to be recognised for the hard work that I put in, and I’m determined to show my dedication to decorating and my customers.”

The top prize of the competition, organised by Screwfix, is a brand new Mitsubishi pickup truck worth £33,000.

Christina thinks her determination, passion and attitude will help her win.

She has more than 30 years of experience in the decorating trade, and uses her skills to decorate at hostels and women's refuges for free.

She regularly goes to career days at schools to help youngsters, especially girls, become interested in pursuing a career with a manual trade, and she hopes a win in the competition could inspire other women into the industry.

Caroline Welsh, director of brand and marketing at Screwfix, said: “The standard of entries for Britain’s Top Tradesperson this year has been outstanding. This award is given to those who demonstrate that they go above and beyond in their trade.

"It’s for tradespeople who show excellence in how they are adapting to change in the industry, have a positive impact on their community and invest in the future of the trade, showing true professionalism in every job they complete.

"Being selected as a regional finalist means that we see these qualities in Christina.”