CONSTRUCTION skills shortages are on the increase across a number of trades and professions, according to the Federation of Master Builders.

Small firms are said to be experiencing major difficulties getting carpenters, joiners and bricklayers.

Gordon Nelson, Scottish director of the FMB, said an additional 6,000 tradespeople will be needed in Scotland every year for the next five years.

Meanwhile the FMB's latest State of Trade Survey, covering the fourth quarter of 2014, showed a net balance of four in Scotland, a positive swing from -5 in the previous quarter.

The composite indicator looks at workload, expected workload and enquiries.

Mr Nelson said: "Last year Scotland was very much in the spotlight and it is encouraging to see that the year ended with some encouraging results."