SIXTY drivers at a North-East exhaust and vehicle servicing company have achieved top marks in a new qualification.

As part of its commitment to staff development, North Eastern Tyre and Exhausts (NETE), which has 23 retail outlets and six wholesale depots across the region, enrolled the group on an NVQ level two in delivery and carrying goods.

The Middlesbrough-based company, which employs more than 350 people, secured a 100 per cent pass rate with all 60 drivers passing the course, run in association with Gateshead College.

One student, Steve Martin, was named the college’s Student of the Year in his category after scoring particularly highly on all customer service elements of the course.

John Potts, NETE’s senior operations and logistics manager, said: “It’s no surprise that Steve has been awarded this special recognition.

“His approach to completing the NVQ was the same as his approach to his job – with dedication, commitment and a desire to be the best that he can.

“Steve is an excellent member of the team, always smiling, even when the temperature is below zero and he is unloading an 18 tonne truck full of tyres.

“He’s an example to us all.”

Gavin Marshall, managing director of the business, said: “In the current economic climate, where there is turbulence in the employment market, it is paramount to invest in our staff, thus providing them with the qualifications necessary for career progression, as well as ensuring that they are equipped with the skills necessary to give our customers the best possible customer service.”

Starting life as a tyre garage in Brotton, in Cleveland, 37 years ago, North Eastern Tyre and Exhausts now has six wholesale warehouses, eight North Eastern Tyre and Autocare retail centres and 15 HiQ Fast Fit centres operated under franchise.