A COMMITMENT to training staff has won a major award for Okehampton's largest employer. The Manor House Hotel was named best large employer of the year at the South West Skills Awards held in Exeter last week. Judges were looking for employers that could clearly show the benefits they had gained from a commitment to training their workforce through apprenticeships — and the Manor House was top choice. The awards, presented by Olympic gold medal sprinter Jason Gardener, recognise and celebrate the achievements of apprentices, learners and employers who have excelled in the region. Paul Adams, from the Manor House, said: 'All the courses that we have done through Duchy College, part of Cornwall College, have helped develop not only our business growth, but also self-awareness of what individual actions could have on a business, which at times caters for over 850 guests. 'We need to raise our standards every year to try to stay ahead of our competitors — this is achieved at all levels within our organisation, as training helps to educate our employees to see that continued growth benefits all involved, especially the marketing ability of our hotels. 'This is shown by the fact that our guest numbers have risen by 9.6% over the previous two years.' Cornwall Glass and Glazing, based in St Austell were the winners of the Success in Leadership and Management Award. Teddington Group Ltd, also based in St Austell won the Train to Gain Employer of the Year Award. Andy Peters, business development manager for Cornwall College Business said: 'This is a significant achievement for Cornwall College. We are delighted to have a direct association with three out of the 16 awards across the South West Colleges and Private Training providers.' John Latham, principal of Cornwall College, said: 'I heartily congratulate all of the winners. Their commitment to training their employees has really paid off, and not only through these awards, but through working with their local college all of these businesses have seen sustainable benefits, increased quality and business growth.'