ONE of Burnley's biggest employers has now been highlighted as one of the town's top trainers after earning the Investors in People plaque for a ninth consecutive year.

The national accreditation, which recognises commitment to employee development, is now widespread, but VEKA plc is one of few companies in the region to have held the coveted plaque continuously since 1994 - only a year after the first one was ever awarded.

VEKA, who have factories throughout Europe, America, Asia and the former Soviet Union, is one of the world's biggest manufacturers of PVC-U for the building and refurbishment industry.

Assessors praised the Rossendale Road based company and said they are providing a clear commitment to improve and enhance its people processes.

The assessors added: "Its training and development programmes over many years have been key in the development and growth of the company."

Their comments followed VEKA's fourth three-yearly assessment by the organisation, which will qualify the company to carry the plaque until 2006.

Human resources manager Anita Shaw said everyone at the company was delighted with the award.

She said: "We've always tried to put the highest priority on training and development and it's an added bonus to see our efforts recognised."