The manager of an industrial unit ripped apart by a huge explosion has claimed two national awards for his efforts in keeping the business afloat.

The effects of the massive blast at Speedy Hire Centre at Cross Hills Enterprise Centre in March 2011 ripped a hole in the building, shook homes nearby and showered debris on passing trains, causing the closure of the Airedale line between Cononley and Steeton.

But despite the damage, depot boss Glynn Collins kept the centre open via a portable office, and defied fears the branch would be merged with another or even close.

Mr Collins, from Ilkley, and his colleague Steven Naylor ensured the centre stayed open, maintained jobs and even returned a gross trading profit at the end of the year.

Now Mr Collins has been recognised for his efforts with two awards by scooping the employee of the year and unsung hero accolades.

“It still hasn’t sunk in,” Mr Collins said.

“I’m very proud and very humbled because people took the time out to vote for me.

“The depot staff have been brilliant throughout a really tough time and I’d like to thank them too. Shaun Bishop, Mark Kelly and Wayne Asquith deserve a huge thank you because they were with me all the way and helped to ensure that we survived and actually prospered.”

“It was a tough time in my life but to end that chapter with two awards is something I never dreamt of. They are for the team.”

Speedy’s chief executive Steve Corcoran paid tribute to Mr Collins, whose unsung hero award was voted for by fellow members of staff, with his overall employee honour being decided by the company’s board of directors.

“Glynn is an absolute credit to the Speedy name and I was honoured to present him with his trophy,” he said.

“I’ve long since viewed Speedy as far more than just a business, we are more like a working family.

“When times are tough we help each other out, for the good of our ‘working family’. Glynn is a living testament to this philosophy and I couldn’t be more delighted for him.”