For quantity surveyor Michelle Dean, 25, is one of only two women on the 170-strong workforce at a Manchester city centre building site.

Michelle, who is part way through a degree in quantity surveying at Salford University, said: "Our experience has dispelled the myth that a construction site is a difficult environment for a woman.

"It's a relaxed atmosphere to work in, we are always treated with courtesy and are respected for the skills we bring to the job."

Michelle is employed by John Mowlem Contracting which is carrying out work on 183 luxury apartments at the site.

Contract manager Clive Pirrie said: "Women have shown they can carry out their role as well as any man and successfully work alongside their male colleagues to get the job done.

"The days are long gone when there was a stigma attached to women in the construction trade."