covering letters for jobs

[toseland]

hi lads, a few permanent contracts have popped up where I work. I am wanting to put in for one, but I need help on the covering letter side of things, as I know that's the main thing. What do you lads do for yours, when you have put in for jobs, I know there are templets on the net, but I want better examples, as I know you lads are in some cracking jobs.
cheers for any help and advice in hand!

Start your covering letter with a brief intention.. this should be the position you are applying for,  

Covering letter should sell yourself for the position.. succinctly why you should be employed over anyone else, what can you bring to the role, what benefits, skills, experience and traits do you have to give to the employer that Mr Joe Bloggs from the street cant give your boss.. 

they can get your employment history from your CV if you want 

end it with

"thank you in advance for your time and consideration, and i look forward to your response"

If you know the person to whom you are writing end with. Yours sincerely. 
If you do not know who it is (ie you wrote Dear Sir/Madam) at the start end with "Yours faithfully".