Decorating firm is... decorated!

TOP trainers . . . Dave Luck Ltd owner Denise Luck, centre, receives the award from Sue Price, left, and ITV Granada presenter Lucy Meacock

AN OLDHAM firm has scooped a top training award at a glittering ceremony.

Dave Luck Ltd, painting and decorating contractors, won the prestigious Small Employer of the Year accolade at the North West Apprenticeship Awards.

Bosses were among 23 regional finalists joining the cream of North-West businesses at the event, which celebrated the achievements of apprentices and the contribution they make to their employers.

Held at Manchester’s Midland Hotel, the ceremony was hosted by Granada TV presenter Lucy Meacock.

Dave Luck Ltd was one of 283 entries for eight categories. It currently has eight apprentices and works closely with Oldham College.

Owner Denise Luck said: “As a small business it is a great achievement to be named as Small Employer of the Year.

“We pride ourselves on maintaining high standards and giving our customers a first-class service, and apprenticeships help us achieve this.

“We actively encourage progression and support individuals to reach their full potential. We plan to continue with our training and development programme and hope to diversify by training new and existing employees in different areas. Apprentices are essential for our existence and growth.”

The awards showcased the skills of North-West apprentices as teams worked at the event to assist with the catering, provide the floral decorations and put together the entertainment.

Sue Price, regional director for the National Apprenticeship Service in the North-West, congratulated the firm. She added: “The awards provide a great opportunity to reflect on, and celebrate, the outstanding achievements of apprentices and their employers over the past year and provide a chance to highlight apprenticeships and their benefits to a wide audience.

“There have been some amazing stories of success in the region and some powerful examples of how apprenticeships are bringing a range of benefits to both individuals who are looking to develop their careers and for employers looking to build a highly skilled workforce.”