Plumbers and heating engineers dominate the shortlist for the 2011 best Which? Local business award.

Plumbers and heating engineers dominate the shortlist for the 2011 best Which? Local business award.

This year's candidates includes Alan's Gas Services in Altrincham, Langley Plumbing Services in Caerdydd, and Plummy Plumbers in London.

The award aims to recognise and champion the best in local traders.

Last year's winner, Surrey Electrician Steve Daws, said: "It means a great deal to me and my business to be recognised by my customers and by an organisation with such an outstanding reputation."

Which? members nominate a top local business by writing a review. The shortlisted businesses were applauded for their reliability, technical skill, communication and going one step beyond to keep customers happy, said Which?.

The overall winner will be announced at a ceremony in King's Cross on 23 June.