The plumber is one of the least trusted tradesmen in the UK, according to new research, which suggests such workers could use plumbing courses to build up their expertise and alter their reputation.

Among the other most distrusted professions in the Co-operative Bank study were politicians, estate agents, footballers, car mechanics and journalists.

"It's vital that representatives working in each of these professions work hard to earn back the trust and respect of the general public," remarked business leader of retail products at the firm John Hughes.

One way of doing this could be to take plumbing courses, which could improve an employee's skills as a plumber and offer tips on how they might improve their service.

Mr Hughes suggested that consumers do not need to go back to professionals they do not trust, making it all the more important to build up this relationship.

Last month, the Co-operative Bank claimed that consumers can be a force for good by spending their money with ethical issues in mind.

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