A LEADING Northumberland business has received an award in recognition of its commitment to apprenticeships.

Egger, which has a plant in Hexham, won the Apprentice Award at the recent North-East Business Awards sub-regional final for companies based in the county and across Tyneside.

The category rewarded businesses which have implemented an apprenticeship scheme as an integral part to developing their workforce.

Since 2004, 60 people have completed Egger’s apprenticeship scheme meaning that 10 per cent of the firm’s workforce is, or has been, an apprentice at the plant.

Clare Ball, Egger’s human resources country manager, said: “We have great apprenticeship schemes here, which is so important because it persuades people to think about companies like Egger.

“We offer tailored training, mentoring and further studies to make sure our apprentices make the most of every opportunity we can provide and offer long-term opportunities for individuals who really want to push themselves forward.”

Egger said it was proud of providing support to apprentices from the very beginning of people’s careers.

The company holds taster days for prospective mechanical and electrical engineers and a company induction for successful candidates with a team building day, on top of investment in internal development.

Arthur Harvey, the plant’s engineering manager, was delighted with the recognition. He said: “Winning this award is thanks to the great team at Egger, who are passionate about training and supporting our apprentices who are an intrinsic part of the business.”