FORMER Electrolux worker Benny Devine has returned to the company to guide warehouse staff through their NVQs.

The training officer, 46, joined South West Durham Training, at Newton Aycliffe, after 23 years with Electrolux in Spennymoor.

Leaving school with no qualifications, Benny was in his mid-thirties when he developed a strong interest in learning and training.

After taking a number of courses, he gained training, teaching and management qualifications including the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, and National Exam Board of Supervisory Management certificates.

His progress has been highlighted as an outstanding example for North-East Learning Fortnight.

Benny's first contact with S W Durham Training was during a job instruction and communications course with the company in 1994. Five years later, the company recruited him as placement officer.

When Electrolux approached the company with their latest NVQ candidates, Benny jumped at the chance to return to the business, working with the group of warehouse and distribution staff over the one-year course.

Mr Devine said: "It was great to go back to Electrolux, catch up with some old friends and help the trainees develop their careers.

"I spent such a large chunk of my career at Electrolux, so it's pleasing to give something back and share our training expertise with the company."

He added: "The NVQ in distribution and warehousing is very hands-on. A great deal of time is invested in learning to operate fork lifts and clamp trucks as they hone their skills in load and despatch work."

The course involves written and practical assessments to provide a benchmark for candidates' progress on a wide range of topics.