CHORTEX, a trademark of Stott & Smith, has been recognised as an Investor in People.

The company, established in 1904 by the local Taylor family, is now a part of Coats Viyella Home Furnishings.

It designs, markets, sells, manufactures and distributes high-quality towel products for UK customers such as Marks and Spencer, John Lewis, House of Fraser and British Home Stores.

The company now employs nearly 400 people on one site and operates more than 144 hours per week on shifts.

Investors in people assessors were particularly encouraged by the excellent two-way communications at Chortex through briefings and the managing director's business reviews.

The shop-floor staff's understanding of their individual performance targets and the effectiveness of the appraisal system was also praised.

Andrew Heydeman, head of workforce development at Bolton Bury Training and Enterprise Council, said: "I am delighted that the success of this important local company has continued with the emphasis on its people.

"The staff has proved itself to be a huge asset to Chortex and it is befitting to their commitment that this success should have come their way."

The presentation was made by Ruth Kelly, MP for Bolton West.

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