Stanmore Insurance took home the prize for training up the next generation.

Sponsored by Stateside Foods, this award honours firms which go the distance in investing in the very best training.

The insurance agency in Little Lever, 30 High Street, has been in operation since 1962, and fended off Howorth Air Tech, MBDA UK Limited and Bright Futures Childcare Limited.

Managing director, Jackie Hyde, said: "We're really happy and we didn't expect it.

"For 60 years we've always been really invested in people and I honestly think that's why we have won this evening.

“The competition in this category as well as other categories, this year, was really tough.

“Somebody put is in the competition we didn’t put ourselves in so that feels really special that somebody thought that highly of us.”

The firm has demonstrated exceptional commitment to developing its workforce through innovative apprenticeship, training, and skills programs.

The mentorship and training programs are designed to provide comprehensive exposure to various aspects of the insurance business.

It has delivered workshops to university students to prepare students for successful careers in the industry.

Ms Hyde added how she believes apprentices and taking on youngsters are staples to her company’s performance.

The apprenticeship and training programs at Stanmore Insurance have yielded significant benefits.

The company has successfully mentored and developed two international students from the University of Bolton, integrating their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas into the business.

These apprentices have contributed to various projects, enhancing operational efficiency and driving business growth.

Stanmore Insurance was the night’s first winner at the event inside Bolton Wanderer’s Toughsheet Stadium’s Nat Lofthouse suite.

The Apprenticeships Training and Skills category was sponsored by Stateside Foods.