Talented Mayo builder into semi-finals of Top Tradesperson competition

CHRIS Moran, a builder from Westport, has beaten off stiff competition to secure a semi-final place in Screwfix’s search for the UK and Ireland’s top tradesperson, which is now in its sixth year in Ireland.

Chris, who works with Moran Bros. Builders, has worked in construction for 25 years across all aspects of the industry. His professionalism and dedication stood out among the hundreds of entries from tradespeople across the UK and Ireland.

A qualified civil engineer, Chris has more than two decades in construction under his belt. In 2018, he co-founded Moran Bros. Builders alongside his brother - a growing business that now employs a dedicated team, including a number of young apprentices.

Chris thrives on the variety each project brings and takes pride in teamwork, problem-solving, and the overall sense of accomplishment that comes with a job well done. For him, seeing it all come together - and the clients' smiles at the end - makes it the best job in the world.

The semi-final stage will see Chris compete against over 40 other top tradespeople, presenting their skills and story to judges from Screwfix. The semi-finalists will be whittled down to just 10 before advancing to the national final at Screwfix LIVE in September. The winner will take home a €20,000 trade bundle of tools, tech and training.

Chris says: “When I heard that I had been successful in getting to the semi-final stage of the Screwfix top tradesperson competition I was shocked. It’s an honour to compete against such talented individuals and I’m excited to share my story with the judges - not just to showcase my skills, but also to inspire the next generation of tradespeople.

"Here in Ireland, we need more young apprentices, and I hope to show them just how rewarding a career in the trades can be.”

This year’s successful winner will join the likes of the current top tradesperson, plumber Mohammed Rahman, and 2023 winner Astrid Arnold, in the growing Screwfix Hall of Fame.

Find out more about Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025 here.