A STALWART worker at a Cross Hills motor dealership has received a prestigious accolade.

Mark Pickles has been named Parts Manager of the Year in Vertu Motors' annual CEO awards.

A glittering ceremony was held at Kilworth Hall, Leicestershire.

Mr Pickles has worked at Bristol Street Motors Keighley Vauxhall, at the Crossings Business Park, for nearly 30 years.

The dealership is owned and operated by Vertu Motors plc, which also has Farnell Land Rover, Vertu Volkswagen and Vertu Honda.

Tribute is paid by chief executive officer, Robert Forrester.

"Mark has developed his team and department into a well-oiled machine," he said.

"Through his talent and determination, he has built the strategy for the parts department which has delivered phenomenal growth.

"The two words that sum-up his performance are commitment and consistency.

"Bristol Street Motors Keighley Vauxhall Trade Parts is a bit like my beloved Burnley Football Club – they both punch way above their weight. Mark is the Sean Dyche of parts!"

Mr Pickles said he was honoured to receive the award, but put it down to a team effort.

"There are many managers who do a superb job in contributing to the daily operations of the Vertu Motors Group so it is an honour to have been recognised as Parts Manager of the Year," he said.

"However, the success that the department has seen over the past year has undoubtedly been thanks to the whole team so I would like to dedicate this award to them."