HIGHLY qualified graduates are giving up academic careers to become plumbers in Bolton.

Bolton Community College has seen the number of people enrolling on plumbing courses increase from 170 students three years ago, to the current figure of 420.

Already more than 500 students have signed up for next year's courses, many of whom are believed to be attracted by the high salaries plumbers can command because of a massive shortage of skilled tradesmen.

Some of the plumbing students have numerous qualifications including degrees and A-levels, but have decided to abandon their academic careers. One student has a BA degree in European Studies and a host of A-levels, including in Economics and French.

And several are mature students who are embarking on a second career.

College vice principal Dr Beri Hare said: "I think there are a couple of reasons that we are seeing this growth.

"One, is the good money that plumbers can command and also many people are attracted to the idea of being self employed and being able to work the amount of hours they want to. Secondly, with plumbing, people feel like they are actually doing something. Often people who have a degree end up just interacting through paper or a computer."

A self employed plumber can earn in the region of £50,000 a year - but those prepared to be on call around the clock for emergency work can double that figure.

The Manchester Road college runs an NVQ course in plumbing and also offers a basic course. Courses range in length from one to five years.

Such is the demand for plumbing courses, the college is in the process of expanding workshops and hiring more staff to cope with the stampede.