A SILSDEN company is among the first in the country to receive special recognition for its support of the reserve forces.

Snugpak and nine other organisations from across the region are in the nation's initial cohort of silver award winners in a new employer recognition scheme.

A certificate was presented by the UK's most senior reservist – Major General John Crackett, assistant chief of the defence staff for reserves and cadets – in a special ceremony at Imphal Barracks, York.

Darren Burrell, from Snugpak, received the award.

Major General Crackett said: "I am delighted to present the first organisations in the country with their silver awards and celebrate the tremendous levels of support they give to the reserve forces, and in particular their understanding that reservists are a great asset to their workforce.

"I look forward to seeing many more organisations in the region being recognised through this scheme."

Snugpak, which manufactures sleeping bags and insulated clothing at its Howden Road base, said it was delighted to receive recognition for its role in the scheme.

The MoD is a major customer of the 40-employee firm.

Snugpak marketing manager, Stewart Anderson, said: "One of our guys is in the reservists and as part of our support of the scheme we pledge that he and anyone else who joins up can take the time out if called up and be sure of coming back to a job.

"The fact we manufacture kit for the military adds to that bond."