FIXING boilers, fitting U-bends and repairing leaky taps is just all in a days work for one Rossendale plumber.

But those expecting the best plumber in Lancashire at their doorsteps could be in for a shock.

That is according to Joanne Nuttall, who has been named Lancashire's favourite plumber in a national awards scheme.

The 28-year old, who lives in Scar End Close, Weir, with her three-year-old daughter Imogen, said people were still surprised to see her turn up for jobs in the male-dominated profession.

Joanne, who works with her dad Ken as part of Nuttall and Daughter, became a plumber seven years ago after leaving the Army.

The former Fearns High School pupil decided to leave the Armed Forces while serving in Belfast after terrorists bombed the Theipbal base, in Lisburn, where she was stationed.

Her dad offered her a part-time job helping out until she found another career - but gradually became more involved.

She said: "When I left school I went in the Army. But when I was serving in Belfast, the IRA blew up the camp and some of my friends died.

"I thought I didn't want to see anything like that again so I decided to give in my notice.

"When I left my dad said come and work with me until you get a job and I just ended becoming full-time."

After a year, Joanne did a course at Burnley College to gain her plumbing qualifications.

She was nominated for the contest - which assess plumbers on their technical ability, professionalism, knowledge and commitment to service - by a customer. The judges even phoned her at 9pm one night for an on-the-spot interview.

And Joanne, who says she is treated like one of the lads, said she won the award because the judges were pleased with her responses.

She now goes forward to the North West award and, if successful, she will go through to the national Britain's Favourite Plumbers final in December.

Joanne, who received a certificate for winning the Lancashire title, said she was delighted. She added: "I couldn't believe it, I was over the moon when they told me.

"My dad is really pleased as well. It's a big thing as there is not many women plumbers."