A PAIR of workers at a Keighley district firm who have between them clocked up an incredible 100 years worth of service have won recognition for their loyalty.

John Nevison and Nigel Barrett, both 68, began working at Cirteq circlip manufacturers when they were 18-year-olds. They have now had their dedication rewarded with 50-year long service awards, which they formally received at a presentation on April 7.

The company has been based in Colne Road, Glusburn for 17 years, though both men joined when it was located in Bingley and was called Anderton Springs.

Mr Barrett, who is from Bingley, started as a tool maker and completed a five-year apprenticeship.

He currently works in the company's manufacturing department and acknowledged that it is now rare for someone to have been at the same business for so long.

"It's been a long time but I feel very fortunate to have stayed here," he said. "I know it is a bit unusual these days, but then this has been a good company to work for and I haven't had any problems over the years. I have enjoyed it.

"I'm going to continue working here maybe until the end of this year or some time next year."

Outside of his job Mr Barrett is a keen walker and bird watcher and enjoys watching sport. He is a Leeds United supporter.

His colleague, Mr Nevison, who also lives in Bingley, reached his own 50-year milestone at Cirteq earlier this year making him the firm's longest serving employee.

He began his employment as a general operator working on presses and automatic coilers and is now a senior setter.

"The company has been extremely good to me," he said. "In the last 25 years I've had a few scares.

"In 1991 I had lung cancer, I had a heart attack in 2002 and I lost my wife in 2008. Last year I had a quadruple heart bypass.

"Each time the company has been absolutely superb, so it's nice to know there are still businesses like this about. If they treat you right you want to give something back to them."

Mr Nevison said he intends to continue working for the time being, despite his health problems.

He has been heavily involved in workplace fundraising for elderly patients and people with cancer.

Outside of work he is a life member of Keighley & District Football Association and Sandy Lane Football Club. He has previously been a coach and football manager.

Cirteq human resources manager Denise Storrie said: "According to our records John and Nigel are the only people who've completed 50 years at the company.

"They are both very loyal and committed workers."