Rumours that Great British Bake Off contestant Richard Burr is not a real builder are sadly mistaken.
In a statement released today, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) said Mr Burr, who is in tomorrow's final, is in fact a master builder.
The Daily Mail cast doubt on whether Mr Burr was a real builder, as he claims to be, in a story at the weekend.
Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: "The FMB is extremely proud that our member Richard Burr is challenging stereotypes about builders. Today's modern builders are often multi-talented, as demonstrated by Richard's brilliant performance.
"Unfortunately many people have a negative impression of what constitutes a builder. The reality is that many builders are highly qualified, hail from a variety of backgrounds, and carry out a range of complex and difficult projects.
"We need to rethink the stereotypical image of mud and boots in the building industry and think instead of building professionals such as Richard Burr.
"The building industry offers young people a diverse and rewarding career and it's time old fashioned negative attitudes are changed to reflect the thousands of building professionals who work in the building industry."
The FMB is the UK's largest trade association in the building industry, with national offices in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. It was established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium sized building firms.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
