BAFFLED builders in York want to know where all the craftsmen have gone after their usually popular annual competition attracted only one entry.

The York Guild of Building, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, usually has dozens of entries for its craftsmanship awards, which are now in their sixth year.

But nominations for this year's competition have been so thin on the ground that organisers may extend the deadline.

Application forms were sent out weeks ago to the guild's 150 members but so far there has only been a single one returned.

Former guild master Tony Neal said: "For some reason, unknown to us, the entries just haven't been coming in and we have no idea why that is.

"To be honest, we're getting a bit desperate and just want some people to enter because we know there are many worthy individuals and projects out there."

The awards have previously recognised the achievements of craftsmen and women in leadwork, stone and wood carving, carpentry, joinery and metalwork in both new and repair or restoration work categories.

The Guild welcomes applications from individual nominees, contractors, architectural and surveying practices as a well as building owners.

The closing date for applications is Monday, but that date can be extended if need be.

Winners receive a certificate presented at a gala dinner awards ceremony.

The winner of the individual category last year was wood-carver and modeller Julia Meredith who picked up the honour for her intricate lime wood carving of a 1760 chimney-piece.

The work, which took 15 weeks to complete, was a replica of one of Peter Scheemaker's chimneypieces at Spencer House, London. It was made to order for an American client.

The annual craftsmanship award is given to individual nominees who have carried out building work within 20 miles of York and the work was judged by a panel of guild members.

Julia said she was "very proud" to receive the award. The judges praised her "great skill and ability" and said: "The detail is very fine and executed with sensitivity."

Copies of the rules and nomination forms are available from Roger Silk c/o Houghtons of York, Common Road, Dunnington, York. YO10 5PD or call 01904 489193.

Updated: 10:38 Friday, July 29, 2005