Speaking at the Annual Lunch of the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA), Richard Barrett, BCSA President confirmed that the past year had been an exciting one for the industry and for the BCSA.

He said: "The underlying demand for steel construction remains sound.

"The latest independent report shows that steel's market share is at an all time record high at 70%. Last year the industry's output increased by 3.2% to 1,462,000 tonnes - again an all time record high."

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BCSA continues to enhance support to the constructional steelwork sector and a new regional office has been established near Leeds.

Mr Barrett said: "The staff team has been strengthened with the addition of David Linnell appointed as Commercial Director, Jeff Garner has been appointed as Welding and Fabrication Manager and Jim Carmichael has been appointed as Steel Construction Certification Scheme Manager."

The criteria for BCSA membership, has also been strengthened and all steelwork contractor members are going through a technical and financial assessment which becomes compulsory for all member companies with effect from 1 January 2009.

(CD/JM)