THE customer is king. It might be an old business cliche — but it is one that has served Authorized Access well.

The Bury-based security specialists scooped the Customer Excellence Award sponsored by Clough & Willis, and owner David Ramsden said his team were at the centre of his success.

He said: “It is wonderful, it really is. It is an honour and a privilege. We have worked hard to achieve this. I put it down to a team effort and knowing that the customer pays our wages — the customer has got to be king.”

The company, which was established by Mr Ramsden 21 years ago, is a Master Locksmiths Association-approved locksmith and security centre. Its premises in Bolton Street, Bury, provides security solutions through a wide range of products and services.

Mr Ramsden is a member of Bury Crime Prevention Panel and he advises and exhibits at Home Watch conferences and regularly provides support and technical assistance to Greater Manchester Police.

Keeping the customers satisfied has been at the heart of Authorized Access’s business philosophy since the company was launched in 1989.

Mr Ramsden added: “It is recognised by the directors and communicated through the team that the customer is the most important, single factor in any business.”

He is currently developing a training arm to the business and the company has already been involved in training for local authorities. Maintaining their links with Neighbourhood Watch, the business wants to develop this area further by delivering relevant information and to provide a source of expertise which can be utilised community-wide. Authorized Access fought off stiff competition from Bury lingerie shop Love Your Fit and Bolton-based ta Dental Care.