The study analysed the search volume for skilled trades in locations across the UK and compared the figures to the number of businesses in that trade operating within the location.

The data, collated by Markel Direct, the specialist insurer of tradespeople, revealed that Blackpool is a town with shortages in three out of 13 trades, compared to searches per 10,000 residents.

The wider study, which looked at hotspots for tradespeople across the UK, found that the “jack of all trades” handyperson was the trade that most locations, including Blackpool, were short of.

This trade did not have enough supply to meet the demand in 15 of the 46 locations analysed. The peak months for each skilled trade in Blackpool are based on monthly search volume.

The study also determined when the peaks of searches occurred in each area, indicating when it may be more difficult to get hold of a tradesperson.

Skilled trade Peak month/s according to search volume

• Bricklayer - September and November
• Builder - January and November
• Carpenter - January and November
• Carpet fitter - September and November
• Electrician - January
• Handyman/person - November and September
• Joiner - January and December
• Landscaper - August and September
• Painter and decorator - February and November
• Plasterer - August
• Plumber - August
• Roofer - February and December
• Tiler - January and November
• Window fitter - September and October

In the overall analysis, it was found that September and January were the peak months for the most trades in the most locations.

This is likely due to September being when most children go back to school/ when the summer holiday period ends and January being the beginning of a new year and the start of renovation goals.

However, in Blackpool, January and November were the peak months for most trades.