An insurance provider has predicted there could be more burst pipes in the UK over the coming weeks, which may lead to increased workloads for local tradesmen with plumbing course qualifications.
NFU Mutual claims manager Matthew Scott identified rural properties as being especially at risk due to their isolated locations.
He noted many areas of the UK are experiencing their coldest temperatures for decades and claimed pipes may need fixing as a result, which is likely to involve the skills of engineers who have taken plumbing courses.
"We're already dealing with hundreds of burst pipe claims - but we are very concerned that a thaw could lead to many more bursts," added Mr Scott.
The NFU Mutual representative estimated the firm's members are likely to make about