Growing numbers of young Britons could find plumber training courses popular after UCAS revealed that competition for university places is set to be bigger than ever this year.

According to the body, some 570,556 people had applied for an undergraduate course as of January 22nd, which is 22.9 per cent higher than in 2009.

Commenting on the figures, chief executive of the body Mary Curnock Cook said: "It is clear that once again we have seen a significant rise in applications which leaves us in no doubt that, as last year, this cycle will be very challenging and competitive for applicants."

With so much competition expected for places this year, it could be that many Britons decide to turn their hand to a more technical job role as a plumber.

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering states that the plumbing industry offers varied career paths, a good salary and the chance for people to eventually run their own business.

Want to know more about our plumbing courses