Tough action is needed to save traditional building skills such as tiling, thatching, plastering and painting from extinction.

Pam Alexander, head of English Heritage, said the shortage of skills was so stark it could pose a threat to building structures for future generations. She called for measures to promote conservation training and save traditional skills.

She said: "Craftsmen and women are the unsung heroes of history, less famous than architects and designers. It is the legacy of their enterprise, skill and labour which gives the regions of England their sense of place, their familiar and cherished character and appearance.

"Today, many of the traditional skills needed, for example, to repair historic brickwork, are under threat. We need these skills if we are to hand on the rich fabric of this country in good order to future generations."

To save and celebrate crafts and skills, English Heritage has designated 2001 The Year of Crafts and Skills, celebrated with a programme of more than 100 events across the country from April 1.

These will range from talks on timber-framed buildings to exploring archaeological techniques. Mrs Alexander added: "This presents a unique opportunity to reach new audiences from all sections of the community who would not traditionally visit historic properties, and to promote greater understanding of the importance of traditional skills throughout the world."

Copies of The Year of Crafts and Skills leaflet are available from English Heritage on 0870 333 1181.