SPARKS Female Skills Competition 2025 winner announced

At the Grand Final, held at Stephenson Campus, SMB College Group, Gracie Donaghy from Weston College was officially crowned the winner at the SPARKS Female Skills Competition 2025.  Six of the UK’s top female electrical students and apprentices were brought together in a high-pressure installation challenge. The competitors completed a live installation under the scrutiny of an expert judging panel, including Darren Oates from National Electrotechnical Training (NET), Amy Barratt-Singh (Amy the Sparky), Gina York (The Daughter Electrical) and last year’s winner and runner-up, Charlotte Bobbett and Anne Greaves. Gracie impressed the judging panel with her technical precision, problem-solving skills and confident approach under pressure. Expressing her excitement, she says, “Honestly, I have no words, for once in my life I’m truly speechless. I found it challenging but in a good way. I like that we have to test our skills. Everyone’s lovely, obviously we’re all here to win, but it is really nice meeting everyone. Everyone’s really friendly and it’s nice to share experiences with each other. Every single prize is insane.” Charlie Kirby from Northampton College who earned the Runner-Up title says, “It was definitely a massive shock for me. I didn’t think I was going to finish in time. It’s definitely going to help me out within my working life. My favourite part definitely had to be just wiring it up and second fixing. Thank you so much for everything.” The SPARKS Female Skills Competition is dedicated to supporting and celebrating the next generation of female talent in the electrical trade. Now in its third year, it continues to provide a vital opportunity for Level Two and Three learners to showcase their skills in real-life scenarios while gaining valuable exposure to the industry. This year’s finalists, selected through a series of nationwide regional heats, were: Caitlin Beattie - Derwentside College Charlie Kirby - Northampton College Gracie Donaghy - Weston College Hannah Bone - City College Plymouth India Ward - Darlington College Sianna Borland - South and City College Birmingham Zoe Tanner, Managing Director at SPARKS, says, “The level of talent on display at this year’s final was nothing short of extraordinary. The skill, dedication and passion shown by the contestants, along with the strong industry support present, reflect the significant strides being made toward a more inclusive and dynamic trade. Congratulations to all who took part!” For more from SPARKS click here. 

THORNeco launches new 2025 lighting catalogue

THORNeco has unveiled its brand-new 2025 catalogue, offering a comprehensive range of easy-to-install, energy-efficient lighting solutions, designed to meet the needs of today’s electrical contractors. The updated catalogue introduces new products, including extensions to the popular Zoe range and exciting new additions, Sylvie and Maya. As always, THORNeco’s focus remains on providing solutions that are #EasyToInstall, #EasyToStock and #EasyToSell. Across the range, installers can benefit from flexible features like VARIO and FLEX, allowing them to easily adjust colour temperatures or lumen packages on site - helping streamline stockholding and simplify installation. The new JUST feature also enables fast emergency conversions via a simple plug-and-play kit, offering one product for multiple uses. Sustainability is a key focus too, with 100% recyclable and plastic-free packaging now standard across the THORNeco portfolio. “Our latest catalogue reflects THORNeco’s commitment to making life easier for installers and wholesalers alike - providing versatile, energy-efficient products that deliver real on-site flexibility,” says John Lyons, Divisional Director – Trade at Thorn Lighting. The THORNeco 2025 catalogue is available now to view and download.

#CEFLIVE25 returns to NEC Birmingham this June

On 5-6 June 2025, the UK’s leading electrical distributor, CEF, will again bring the UK’s biggest electrical trade event to the NEC Birmingham. Packed with the industry’s leading brands, networking opportunities, exclusive giveaways, amazing deals and CPD-accredited learning seminars, #CEFLive25 promises to be an unmissable experience for electricians and industry professionals. This year, George Clarke, renowned architect and TV presenter, will be hosting #CEFLive25. Known for his passion for innovation and community-focused design, George will be interviewing suppliers and taking attendees through an action-packed event of networking, learning and amazing deals. #CEFlive25 features an all-new Learning Zone, supported by leading brands Aico, Electrium, Legrand, Scolmore Group, Signify and Wago hosting specialist sessions. Plus, Darren Staniforth and Dave Austin will return with their popular CPD-accredited TechTalks, offering a deep dive into key industry topics, including an essential update on the proposed 18th Edition 4th Amendment. #CEFLive25 is also about rewarding the hardworking professionals who power the industry. Across the action-packed two days, attendees will receive exclusive perks and be eligible for exciting giveaways. Entrants will automatically receive a £50 voucher to spend at CEF.co.uk (T&Cs apply), a free test equipment calibration (worth £70), as well as free entry, free parking and complimentary refreshments. For trade experts looking to enhance their skills and knowledge, there will be over 100+ leading brands with a chance to get hands-on with the latest tools and technologies, speak directly to manufacturers, and discover solutions that can improve efficiency and productivity. Chris Ashworth, CEO of CEF says, “#CEFLive25 is the UK’s leading trade event for electricians and contractors, and we’re pleased to welcome George Clarke as our host this year. At CEF we are committed to providing an event that’s informative, inspiring and rewarding for everyone who attends. Whether you’re here to network or learn #CEFLive25 is here to support the industry and help electricians stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.” With thousands of industry professionals expected to attend, #CEFLive25 is an event not to be missed for electricians, contractors, and apprentices alike. For more information and to register now visit ceflive.co.uk.

Contactum returns as CEF platinum exhibitor

Provider of circuit protection and wiring accessories, Contactum, will be attending CEF Live for the second time as a platinum exhibitor. CEF Live brings together the UK’s electrical sector and provides an opportunity to showcase its products and services. Additionally, across 5-6 June, at the NEC, Birmingham, electrical professionals will be immersed in educational talks in the Learning Zone - a new addition for 2025.  Contactum will be sharing insights into its newest and most recognised solutions. This will include a focus on commercial solutions, such as the robust 125A Power and Lighting Board, the Defender 250A and 125A B Boards.   Plus, the Defender 2.0 will make an appearance - providing the opportunity for visitors to get hands on and ask questions about the Consumer Unit. This brings flush and surface mounted options together with a wide range of supporting circuit protection devices like Bi-Directional RCBOs and AFDDs.  New for Contactum this year, visitors will also find on display a range of wiring accessories, including Metalclad for both commercial and domestic installations, Weatherproof for high-risk outdoor settings, and the Decorative ranges Iconic and Lyric for residential interiors.  Nigel Birch, UK Sales and Key Accounts Manager, says, “CEF Live is an event that the whole team are eager to attend. The 2023 event was a huge success, and we were delighted with how busy our stand was with new and familiar faces who were interested in hearing more about our solutions. So much so, this year we opted for a bigger space. This means we will have more products on display that attendees can get hands on with.” This year Contactum has evolved its stand to incorporate solutions for all applications and are maintaining a continued focus on evolving their practices and processes in line with the company’s Silver EcoVadis assessment and status. For more from Contactum click here. 

Warwickshire contractor grows team after energy support boost

A Warwickshire electrical contractor has recruited extra staff and transformed its premises after receiving financial support from an energy efficiency programme. Hertz Electrical was started in 2018 by Andy Wood in Somers Road, Rugby, with four employees to provide electrical installation and maintenance for domestic and commercial customers throughout Coventry and Warwickshire. The 130m2 premises were in need of a complete overhaul to take the business to the next level so Andy got in touch with Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub to see if there was any support available. Adam Plumb, who covers Rugby for the Growth Hub, put Andy in touch with the Warwickshire Business Energy Advice Service (WBEAS). The pilot BEAS programme is being run in the West Midlands through the West Midlands Combined Authority with Warwickshire County Council being allocated £1.25 million, with further funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, via Warwickshire’s five District and Borough Councils. Warwickshire County Council has appointed Coventry City Council to carry out the energy audits and this was completed by Business Energy Adviser Denise Osborne. That led to Hertz Electrical successfully applying to Warwickshire County Council for a WBEAS grant of £37,561 for a roller shutter door, double glazing, wall insulation, roof insulation, a water heater and voltage optimiser. Andy said a total of £150,000 had been invested to totally upgrade the site which has also led to three new recruits this year – a solar apprentice and two fully-qualified electricians – to take the number of employees to 16. He says, “Previously, the insulation was non-existent, which meant it was always cold even when the heating was on, there was limited desk space and storage space was a struggle. “Now, the walls are fully insulated, which has made it much warmer. We fitted solar panels ourselves, the water heater has been upgraded, and we now have enough room to store solar panels. “We have new furniture, carpets and LED lighting and the whole place has been painted, so we are feeling more confident about the future. “We’re in a growing business sector because of the push towards renewables and the changes in technology. Over the last five years there has been so many changes in the industry. “We really appreciate having the grant because without it we wouldn’t have been able to make these changes for another two years. We needed better premises to support our growth and now we have that.” WBEAS was launched as part of the £4.6 million Business Growth Warwickshire Programme developed and commissioned jointly by Warwickshire County Council and the five district and borough councils in the county, with funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the County Council. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is funding an expansion to the service as part of the West Midlands Combined Authority-led pilot.

Carhartt launches Tencel Fibre Series for women

Carhartt has unveiled its Tencel Fibre Series for women, a collection of lightweight, breathable and durable workwear. Developed using Tencel Lyocell fibres, the range brings together comfort, performance and sustainability. Carhartt’s Tencel Fibre Series was created in direct response to feedback from tradeswomen who wanted lighter workwear that could handle tough conditions without feeling heavy or restrictive. The result is a collection that’s lighter, softer and more versatile, with every piece built to deliver long-lasting performance. Each piece in Carhartt’s new range is designed to move easily between work and downtime. T-shirts in the collection have a relaxed fit, lightweight feel and practical details like rib knit collars and chest pockets. The short sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt comes in a range of colours including soft rose, barnwood, oat milk heather and wisteria, offering a fresh take on traditional workwear tones. A long-sleeve option is also available, cut with extra room to move and built with the same lightweight Tencel fibres to ensure breathability and comfort in warmer weather. The range also includes a midweight French Terry Crewneck Sweatshirt that balances softness with strength, making it a reliable go-to for both job sites and off-duty wear. A midweight Half-Zip Sweatshirt is available in black or oat milk, in a relaxed fit for easy layering. Powered by Tencel fibres, both sweatshirts offer an extra-soft feel with the resilience to stand up to repeated use and washing. Tencel Lyocell fibres are made from sustainably sourced wood pulp and are both biodegradable and environmentally responsible. Despite their softness, these fibres offer exceptional strength, making them ideal for durable workwear. The fabric’s breathability plays a key role in keeping wearers comfortable in warm or physically demanding environments. By allowing good airflow and wicking moisture away from the skin, it helps prevent overheating and keeps the wearer dry throughout the day. For more from Cahartt click here. 

Almost half of Brits aren’t aware of RCDs

A survey commissioned by NICEIC says that 46% of Brits don’t know what Residual Current Devices (RCDs) are and only 16% know if their home has one. As summer approaches, the nation’s use of electrical outdoor appliances and gadgets will increase. Recent research has found 96% of garden electrical products fail safety tests due to substandard plugs, counterfeit fuses and water ingress, meaning that RCDs could be lifesaving.  RCDs are designed to automatically cut off power if an earth fault is detected in indoor and outdoor electrical circuits, helping to prevent electric shocks, fires and potentially expensive damage. It is recommended that they are tested regularly by pressing the test button on the RCD every six months. The data also reveals that young people (aged 25-34) are the most likely to say they know what an RCD is, with just 32% being unfamiliar with the device. 29% know their home has at least one RCD. By comparison, 52% of respondents aged 55 and over are unfamiliar and only 17% know if their home has RCDs installed. Regionally, awareness is lowest in Northern Ireland and Wales, with half of respondents saying they don't know what an RCD is. The Northwest follows closely behind at just over 49%, with the East of England at 48%. At the other end of the scale, the Northeast has the highest awareness level, with only 35% unaware of the device, followed by Greater London (40%) and the East Midlands (41%). There are also marked differences between homeowners and those privately renting. 49% of respondents living in private rental accommodation don’t know what an RCD is, compared to 44% of homeowners with a mortgage and 43% of homeowners without a mortgage. Paul Collins, Technical Director of the NICEIC, says,"Whilst there are some regional differences when it comes to awareness of RCDs, the research does show that there is a lack of knowledge across the board.” “Because RCDs ensure that certain electrical faults are detected and power is quickly shut off, they play a crucial role in preventing electric shocks, fires, and other potentially life-threatening accidents.” “If you notice your RCD tripping repeatedly, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong and your RCD has done its job - this should not be ignored. It indicates a fault that will require attention. Don’t take the risk of leaving it unchecked.” “RCDs are easy to test. Simply press the test button on your RCD every 6 months - this is a quick and simple way to make sure your RCD is working correctly.” “When you press the test button the RCD trips and the power is switched off. However, if the RCD doesn't trip, it may indicate a problem and you should contact a NICEIC-registered electrician to have it checked.” “It's crucial that homeowners understand the importance of having a fully functioning RCD in place and that any electrical work, including the installation or replacement of an RCD, should always be carried out by a NICEIC-registered electrician.” “If you’re unsure or uncomfortable testing your RCD yourself, a registered electrician can carry out a full safety check to ensure everything is functioning properly, giving you peace of mind.” For more from NICEIC click here. 

NAPIT offers advice as part of Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week and Learning at Work Week 2025 (LAW Week) are both taking place from 12-18 May, with the theme of ‘community’ for Mental Health Awareness week, and ‘get connected’ for LAW Week. By combining these themes, NAPIT aims to connect through learning experiences that support mental wellbeing. This week, NAPIT is exploring how building community and connecting in the workplace have positive effects on our mental wellbeing. Being part of a positive community helps us to feel supported and gives a sense of belonging. In hard times, having a community and connecting with people provides support, safety and helps us remember we are not alone. To celebrate the power of community in support of mental health and wellbeing, throughout the week, NAPIT staff are encouraged to take part in an afternoon walk led by different staff members each day. This allows staff to have the opportunity to spend time outdoors and connect with others. Nature plays a huge role in our wellbeing, and research shows that people who are more connected with nature are usually happier in life and more likely to report feeling their lives are worthwhile. In a report from the Mental Health Foundation, it states that nature can generate many positive emotions, such as calmness, joy, and creativity and can facilitate concentration. With this in mind, NAPIT staff are encouraged to go outside into the scenic nature surrounding our NAPIT HQ at the Pleasley Vale Mills in Derbyshire. This will help staff strengthen their connections, encourage positive discussions and get closer to nature. NAPIT's staff will also be able to take part in chat sessions with coffee, tea and cake to encourage more discussions and continue the opportunity to connect. Commercial and Compliance Director, Stephen Melton, says, “We want to emphasise the importance of being part of a community and having a network of supportive people. Building connections can make such a difference in your mental wellbeing. “At NAPIT, we are proud to be able to support our staff. I hope that we can encourage NAPIT members and all tradespeople to check in with each other and seek support if needed. We must learn and share how we can recognise mental health struggles and what support is available. “Each year, NAPIT raises money for a chosen charity through different fundraising events. This year, our chosen charity is The Samaritans, a suicide prevention charity that has a 24/7 helpline for people thinking about suicide. “We are proud to support The Samaritans and hope to continue to encourage more conversations and connections to improve mental health.” NAPIT has put together the following resources and contacts that offer assistance: Contacts The Samaritans offers emotional support 24 hours a day – in full confidence. Writing an email can be a calm and safe way to work through what’s on your mind. Samaritans volunteers answer each email that comes through to jo@samaritans.org. It may take several days to receive a reply by email. If you need someone straight away, you can call 116 123 any time day or night. SHOUT. For free, confidential support, 24/7, text SHOUT to 85258. If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, trained Shout volunteers are available day or night. Lighthouse Charity. The Lighthouse Charity provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to the construction community and their families. Helpline: UK – 0345 605 1956, or email supportservices@lighthouseclub.org. The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). The EIC plays a vital role in the welfare and betterment of individuals associated with the electrical and energy industry. Helpline: 0800 652 1618, or email support@electricalcharity.org. For more from NAPIT, click here.

UK firm develops recyclable PVC feeder cabinet

UK manufacturer, Ritherdon, has launched its newest electrical enclosure – the first fully-recyclable PVC Cabinet. The company is leaping into a more sustainable future by launching these innovative new cabinets as the family-owned firm celebrates its 130th anniversary. Following months of research and development, combined with a six-figure investment, the Ritherdon PVC Cabinet range offers a new cost-effective solution for housing electrical equipment across a wide variety of applications, including EV chargers. The innovative and durable PVC Cabinets are said to be different from any other plastic electrical enclosure currently on the market, because they can be recycled, unlike the standard GRP – glass reinforced plastic – enclosures, which end up in landfill. Ritherdon’s cabinets are crafted from high-quality PVC over a metal frame, ensuring years of resistance to corrosion and environmental wear. Designed with versatility in mind, applications for the PVC Cabinet are endless, from geothermal power stations to electric vehicle charging banks, telecoms equipment and advertising billboard housing to temporary building supplies. Ritherdon ensures that the PVC Cabinet complies with relevant industry standards, including those set by National Highways, as there is huge potential to install these cabinets along the roadside. Each PVC Cabinet is also designed with enhanced security features, including a robust locking mechanism to prevent unauthorised access, ensuring the vital and expensive equipment within is kept secure. Another bonus to the PVC Cabinet’s construction is that it can be shipped to clients flat-packed, making them ideal for temporary housing solutions and exporting, and they are already receiving keen interest in their customisable cabinets internationally, including France, Australia, New Zealand and Iceland.

Martindale Electric launches new PAT testers

Martindale Electric has unveiled two new handheld Portable Appliance Testers (PAT) - the HPAT550 and HPAT650. Compact, easy to operate and feature-rich, the new testers are designed to simplify PAT testing while maintaining full compliance with testing requirements for Class I and Class II appliances. Replacing the HPAT400, HPAT500 and HPAT600 the new models are built for portability and convenience. They offer one-button automatic testing and a clear PASS/FAIL indication, backed by measured values shown on a high-resolution colour display. These features, combined with USB-C fast charging and a lightweight, rugged design, make the HPAT series ideal for engineers conducting routine testing on the move. The HPAT550 and HPAT650 deliver all the essential tests needed to verify the safety of electrical appliances. Both instruments include an IT-safe 200mA earth continuity test, selectable insulation resistance testing at 250V and 500V, and a dedicated test mode for IEC power leads. The 250V insulation test option ensures compatibility with surge-protected devices, giving testers greater flexibility across a wider range of applications. With a simple interface and logical test sequencing, the HPAT series has been developed to reduce user error and increase efficiency, particularly for high-volume PAT environments. The HPAT550 features fully automated testing modes for quick and consistent results. For those needing more advanced features, the HPAT650 steps up with additional capabilities. The unit includes onboard memory for storing up to 100 test results with on-screen recall, allowing testers to keep track of their testing without external devices. Single test execution mode enables users to carry out individual tests manually, while user-adjustable test limits cater for appliances with longer supply leads or non-standard requirements. The HPAT650 also includes a substitute leakage test feature for checking earth leakage at reduced voltage, an essential addition for sensitive electronic equipment where powered testing is impractical or not permitted. Both models feature an intuitive user interface with context-sensitive help screens, making them accessible to both seasoned professionals and those new to PAT testing. The robust yet compact construction ensures durability in challenging site conditions. Both testers can complete a significant number of tests on a single charge with an auto power-down feature to extend battery life even further. The HPAT550 and HPAT650 are supplied with everything needed to begin testing straight out of the box. Each kit includes a TL67 earth bond probe, EX322 IEC adaptor lead, TC57 carry case, and a USB-A to USB-C charging cable, alongside a verification certificate and operating instructions. For more from Martindale Electric, click here.