AN accountancy practice has been recognised for its commitment to training apprentices.

Mitchells Grievson, in Bishop Auckland, has been shortlisted for an industry award.

The company entered the National Apprenticeship Awards after being nominated by training provider Access Training.

It has now been shortlisted as a regional finalist and, if successful, will compete against other regional winners in a national final in November.

The company, founded 40 years ago, employs 18 workers and has always had apprentices in its team.

Andrew Houghton, Mitchells Grievson’s director, said: “Since the business was first opened, it has always recruited apprentices.

“We know first-hand how invaluable these programmes are and we’re proud to continue to support the delivery of apprenticeship programmes across the North-East.”

The firm has four apprentices in its team and bosses say it takes on at least one new apprentice every year.

Each member of its team, with the exception of two graduates, has completed an apprenticeship.

Both of the firm’s directors also started their careers as apprentices.

Mr Houghton added: “Through Access Training, we continue to champion the value apprenticeships can bring.

“We continually see the benefits they bring to our business in terms of the morale of the entire team and the service received by our clients, not forgetting the very visible return on investment they bring.”

Malcolm Armstrong, Access Training’s managing director, added: “Mitchells Grievson is a shining example of a North-East business fully supportive of apprenticeship programmes, not only in the sense of taking on new recruits but helping to promote the programme and the benefits it can bring.”