SAFETY specialists Tate Security Services has achieved an award from the National Security Inspectorate (NSI). The firm, based at Langley Park, Durham, was presented with a gold accreditation following a series of inspections by NSI covering everything from technical ability to customer service. The Inspectorate operates a three-grade award system from bronze to gold. Pam Tate, owner of Tate Security Services, said: "This award is testimony to the hard work and competence of my staff."

HEALTHY RETURN: People who have invested in buy-to-let properties have seen an average return of more than £24,000 on their money during the past year, figures showed yesterday. Increases in property prices combined with annual rental incomes of about £9,600 have given investment landlords in England and Wales a 16.7 per cent return on their initial investment, according to specialist lender Paragon Mortgages.

DEFENCE SALE: Aerospace and defence group Cobham has disposed of its fluid and air companies to US-based Eaton Corporation in a deal worth £150m. Dorset firm Cobham said the sale would enable it to focus on further investments in technology