A HISTORIC family steel firm has retained a top accreditation.

John W Laycock Ltd, which is based at Stockbridge, has achieved continued full compliance with stringent CE Mark requirements for structural steel.

Company bosses said they were delighted with the accreditation, which was awarded after an audit by ISO certification provider Alcumus ISOQAR.

“We have worked very hard to gain and maintain our CE certification since 2014,” said Laycock’s managing director, Mark Sugden.

“Having the CE Mark gives us peace of mind that we are legally compliant but moreover it demonstrates to our customers that we have the capability to supply a high level of quality steelwork.”

It has been a legal requirement for six years that all structural steel fabrications are CE marked, in accordance with what’s known as the Construction Products Regulation.

Under its certification, John W Laycock is permitted to manufacture and supply structural steel for domestic properties, commercial buildings, hotels, hospitals, schools and car parks between two and 15 storeys high.

Mr Sugden added: “The CE Mark, alongside our existing production capabilities, contributes to us achieving the quality and flexibility that delivers projects on time and to the required high standard.

“By complying with the standard, we can ensure that our clients and contractors are given confidence throughout the supply chain – from the supply of steel sections and plate to fabrication by qualified and certified welders.”

Next month, the CE Mark is being replaced by the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking.

The company’s certification will transfer across, with no change to its scope.

Laycock’s origins date from 1746, when there is evidence of the family making nails in Keighley.

It broadened its offering to ironmongery and the firm was established as a limited business in 1810.

In the late 19th century the company relocated from Low Street to a site in North Street.

Further expansion followed during the 1900s. A new warehouse was opened at Stockbridge in 1979, and it was extended twice over the next two decades.

With growth continuing into the current century, the firm vacated its North Street premises in 2011 and the whole operation was moved to the Stockbridge site.