A joiner from Leyburn is preparing to prove he is the best in the world at his trade.

Lee Fawcett has defeated the best in the country to win a place on the UK team for the 37th World Skills competition.

During the four-day Olympic-style competition in Switzerland Mr Fawcett will compete against young people from across the globe for a chance to become world champion.

He is one of 30 people from the UK to take part in the contest, which involves more than 40 occupational skills.

Mr Fawcett said: "It is a real honour to be given the chance to demonstrate my skills against the very best from across the world.

"The competition will be a fantastic opportunity and the whole team are all excited and determined to put in our best efforts."

The event is held every two years and will take place at St Gallen, in June. It is expected to attract more than 700 competitors from 36 countries.

Linda Ammon, chief executive of UK Skills which manages the UK team, said: "All these young people have proven themselves as exceptionally skilled in their fields, and are proof of the marvellous opportunities and prospects available for those who invest in vocational skills."

For the first time, all UK competitors will work towards a Senior City and Guilds qualification, the Licentiateship. UK Skills, an independent charity promoting occupational skills, has delegated authority to assess the competitors for this award.