EMPLOYEES from a Brighouse firm have gained qualifications in “lean” manufacturing.

Five members of staff at bathrooms firm Heritage Ceramics received the City & Guilds licentiateship in lean manufacturing in a ceremony at Leeds University.

The employees – who were chosen for their potential to become “future leaders” – were among the first to undertake the work-based qualification.

The licentiateship is part of the Manufacturing Masters Programme run by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

It aims to increase skills among the region’s manufacturing companies, teach employees how to think one step ahead and contribute toward the competitiveness of their business.

Certificates were awarded by Prof Alan Roberts to Heritage production services team leader John Helliwell, castings team leader Craig Gabbitas, processing superintendent Steven Brannan, divisional director Brian Keeley and general manager Martin Beck.