A local man has become the 100th president of a trade association for plumbing and heating. 

Born in Dumbarton and raised in Clydebank, John Doherty has already sprung into action in his new role in the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF) by calling for more action to address the skills shortage in the profession.

He is also urging for increased government engagement in the low-carbon home heating transition.

He said: "It is an honour to lead SNIPEF at this crucial time.

"Addressing the ongoing skills shortage in our profession is vital, particularly as the transition to low-carbon heating, crucial for hitting government net-zero targets, is significantly behind.

"This shortfall underscores the urgency of our mission and the critical role our profession must play."

Mr Doherty studied at Clydebank College, Cardonald College, and Glasgow College of Building and Printing.

In 1999, he founded John Doherty & Co Ltd which is based in Old Kilpatrick.

The firm employs 19 full-time employees and offers numerous building services to clients including Scottish Water, North View Housing Association, West Dunbartonshire Council, and Hampden Park Stadium.

Having previously served as the president of the Glasgow & West of Scotland Plumbing Employers’ Association, Mr Doherty brings leadership knowledge to his current role.

In his aim to bridge the skills gap in the plumbing and heating profession, he said: "By reviewing and enhancing our Modern Apprenticeship in Plumbing and Heating, we aim to attract and develop the talent necessary to sustain our profession’s growth and meet evolving environmental and societal standards."

He also stressed the importance of public education about sustainable heating alternatives, adding: "Recent SNIPEF research has found that 59% of people do not feel they have the knowledge needed to transition to low-carbon heating systems.

“Educating homeowners and the wider community about these alternatives is essential for meeting our climate goals and our profession's economic health.

"We must accelerate our efforts and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure this transition is successful."

His presidency will run until May 23, 2025.