A RISING star at a Westhoughton building contractor has been crowned one of the UK’s top 10 new generation business leaders in a prestigious national award scheme.

Kingsley Thornton, aged 33, operational support director at Forrest, has received the Business in the Communities (BITC) Sieff Award for future leaders in the North West.

Sponsored by Marks and Spencer, the Sieff Award recognises individuals who are driving sustainable practices and transforming the way people do business in years to come.

Mr Thornton leads staff across a range of business functions, including compliance, learning and development and IT and after-services.

He was commended by the judges for introducing best practice initiatives that support innovation and sustainable business growth, while also maintaining a high level customer satisfaction and continued community investment.

Forrest chief executive Lee McCarren said: “Since joining Forrest four years ago, Kingsley has proved himself to be a top talent, delivering excellent results for the company, our clients and their customers. His rapid progression to operational support director at the age of 30 is evidence of his genuine ability, and it’s fantastic to see his hard work recognised.”