A WEST Devon drainage company has beaten off stiff competition from Cornwall through Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, to be confirmed South West Training Awards Winners. Okehampton-based Drainology was recognised for the company?s commitment to the training and continued professional development of its employees at a ceremony which took place recently at Bristol Council House. Drainology survey repair and maintain drains for customers all over the South West. The awards, now in their 19th year, were hosted by TV presenter Jenny Hull. She congratulated all the award winners, saying: ?Tonight has been a true celebration of the talent and skills we have here in the South West. ?No matter what sector you work in, or what job you do, investing in training is the key to success. I would like to say a personal congratulations to everyone I have met and wish them all the best for the future.? The award was received by Dave West and Keith Simson, the company?s two directors. Dave said: ?We are delighted to have received this award, as we believe it is a clear illustration of our commitment to, and the importance we place on, training and development at Drainology. ?I?m also extremely proud of all my employees, who have embraced and continue to be resolutely committed towards the company?s training ethos, with both individuals, and the company as a whole, reaping the rewards.? Also present at the awards was Dr Graeme Hall, chief executive of UK Skills. He said: ?Tonight?s ceremony is all about celebrating remarkably talented organisations and individuals which are striving to do their best and achieve excellence. ?Acknowledging and highlighting good practice is incredibly important if we want to continue to compete in a global market. ?In order to do so, we need to focus on achieving high quality skills and standards and these organisations and individuals are great examples of this in practice.? Eighteen months ago Drainology set out to pursue a number of key accreditations and qualifications for both itself and its employees, which to date has seen the company recognised as an Investor in People; all employees qualified to, or training towards NVQ Level 2 Construction and Civil Engineering; and the company successfully registered with Constructionline, CHAS and Devon County Councils CustomerFirst scheme. Drainology are also firmly committed to the CSCS Gold Standard, while also being fully accredited under the New Roads & Streetworks Act 1991.
