BUCKINGHAMSHIRE'S most treasured historic buildings are under threat from a shortage of skilled craftsmen in the heritage sector.

A survey published by the National Heritage Training Group last week stated that more than 700 people need to be recruited in the South East within the next few months to meet the demand for maintenance work.

If the void is not filled, the upkeep of buildings such as Hughenden Manor, the Dashwood Mausoleum and Princes Risborough Manor House could suffer.

The research found that 3,386 people currently work within the built heritage sector in the South East, preserving some 676,000 pre-1919 historic buildings, including 99,193 listed buildings.

However, 17 per cent of local contractors have outstanding vacancies and the workload is ever increasing, meaning the industry desperately needs a sharp upturn in numbers.

Andrew Brown, regional director for English Heritage in the South East, said: "Not only does the report produce yet further evidence that heritage conservation skills are at risk, but uniquely it puts forward an action plan to tackle specific problems."

In light of the report, English Heritage have produced a Skills Action Plan to highlight how best to inject life into the heritage sector.

Mr Brown added: "The message is very clear it is time for joined-up thinking and concerted action across the construction industry, the built heritage sector, educational establishments, careers organisations, funding bodies and Government departments to tackle a vital issue that is at the heart of sustaining two things which people hold very dear in the South East beautiful historic buildings and the craftsmanship that maintains them."

The recruitment drive aims to entice more than 80 carpenters, 70 speciality bricklayers, 60 slate and tile roofers, and more 40 stonefixers and thatchers to work in an industry estimated to be worth over £3.5billion across England every year.

David Linford, chairman of the National Heritage Training Group said: "The Skills Action Plan has been developed in consultation with everyone involved in heritage building skills from employers, to education providers and clients. We believe it offers a robust solution to the current threats to vulnerable trades and buildings and look forward to many years of safeguarding the country's built heritage."