A BRIGHOUSE firm making security fencing has been spotlighted for its efforts to train staff.
Siddal and Hilton, of Birds Royd Lane, hosted a visit by John Healey, Economic Secretary to the Treasury.
Mr Healey and Calder Valley Labour MP Chris McCafferty were welcomed by managing director Kevin Speers.
The company is taking part in the Government's Train to Gain programme, which aims to equip workers with National Vocational Qualifications.
The scheme allows workers to study towards NVQs during work time - with their wages paid by the Learning and Skills Council.
Ten employees at Siddal and Hilton are training for qualifications in manufacturing, with support from Brighouse-based Kirkdale Industrial Training Services.
Mr Speers said the company was updating the skills of its workforce following the growth of new markets.
Siddal and Hilton has traditionally made wire products such as coathangers and handles for buckets.
But Mr Speers said: "Most of our growth has been for products such as high-security mesh fencing.
"We have to invest quite heavily in new machinery and equipment.
"We are having to change the skills of our employees, from operating fairly small machinery to much bigger machines."
The company has 104 employees and annual sales of £15m.
During a day in Yorkshire, Mr Healey also visited the Archbishop of York C of E Junior School in York to meet staff and pupils working on projects with industry.
