A CAR parts maker has been nominated for an award highlighting its commitment to apprenticeships.

Nifco UK, in Eaglescliffe, near Stockton, has been shortlisted for a Plastics Industry Awards honour for worker Anna Donaldson.

The business, which makes millions of plastic products from door handles to cup holders for almost every make of vehicle on UK roads, says it has a long-standing commitment to apprentices, taking on at least five young workers every year.

It has been nominated in the Apprentice or Trainee of the Year Award category.

Mike Matthews MBE, managing director of Nifco UK and European operations officer, said: “I’m delighted for Anna.

“She has been a great addition to our team and I really hope she is recognised at the awards.

“As someone who started my career as an apprentice, I believe employers, big and small, have a responsibility to give the next generation the opportunity to break into industry.

“That’s something we are trying to make sure happens here.

“We are especially keen to see more women enter the industry.

“Traditionally, manufacturing has attracted men, but we're starting to see that change, and with talented young women like Anna succeeding in the industry, we hope other people will be interested.”

The company, which supplies to clients including Nissan, Ford and Honda, has also been shortlisted for the Processor of the Year title.

The finals take place in London on Friday, October 24.

Earlier this year, The Northern Echo revealed Nifco UK could open a third factory as bosses anticipate continued rising demand for the rest of the decade.