The noise, the water and the enthusiasm were hard to ignore as the competitors for the Institute of Water Drilling and Tapping 2011 crown did battle.

Men and women compete for victory in the competition, which sees contestants drill and tap a 150mm diameter ductile iron main under pressure and connect a service tap.

Fourteen teams took part this year with Sembcorp Bournemouth Water crowned as winners in the men’s category, completing in a time of a 2mins 32secs.

The winners will go on to represent the UK in June 2012 at the American Water Works Association Exhibition.

In the women’s corner, ‘Northern Ireland Ladies B’ team took the Ladies title with a winning time of 3mins 27secs.

Peter Haslock and Danny Hunt lifted the men’s trophy and Fiona Duff and Orla McGivern were awarded the Pipetech Ladies Trophy.

There was excitement in the international trophy too as Waternet Amsterdam saw off stiff competition from the English, Scottish, Irish and Welsh teams, with a time of 2 mins 49secs.

Championship organiser Barrie Light from Sembcorp Bournemouth Water was delighted with the competition and the level of skill and team work demonstrated.

He said: “This was a very close and exciting competition this year, as a new fitting really challenged the teams.

“Once again the event demonstrated the high quality of teamwork, skill and camaraderie within the UK water industry.

“We need more teams to enter in to this competition to ensure it continues. Please do spread the word and encourage more water companies and contractors to get involved.”

Alison Brown

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