The company, based at Northolt Drive, Bolton, founded in 1976 by Managing Director Michael Griffiths, received the award for helping its 130-strong staff to gain extra qualifications.

The group comprises Contamination Control Apparel, which produces industrial chemical protective clothing and Diamond Wild-Water which makes diving and canoeing wear.

Human resources director Karen Griffiths said: "The philosophy behind Investors in People is very close to our own company philosophy as we have always been committed to investing in the future of our employees."