A DORSET manufacturer has been commended at the 2018 Princess Royal Training Awards.

Superior was among 48 firms recognised by HRH The Princess Royal last week for "inspirational commitment to learning and development".

The company has its own Apprenticeship Academy based on site, offering apprenticeships to students as young as 16.

Apprentices learn about engineering, science and manufacturing, and all are given the opportunity to gain a degree.

The company currently has 20 apprentices at different stages in their programme, with students working in various roles including design, manufacturing, maintenance, quality, process engineering, precision engineering and working in the laboratory.

Superior will receive its award from Princess Anne at a ceremony at St James Palace in October.

Managing director Tim Brown said: “We are extremely proud to be recognised against so many other companies across the country that are investing in staff development and feel privileged to have been invited to receive the award later on this year.

"It’s such an honour to be commended for our contribution to apprenticeships and is a great encouragement for us to maintain our strategy of investment into workforce development.

"Our apprentices are a key part of Superior’s future and success; we will continue to grow the amount of apprentices we take on each year."

Superior’s Academy was opened by the Duke of Kent and the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset in 2012 and has since gone from strength to strength.

Mr Brown was awarded an MBE in 2016 for the company’s commitment to apprenticeships and charitable services.