A BAKER'S dozen of assistant managers and one manager from Greggs shops across the region have completed their NVQ level two qualification in retail operations.

Greggs introduced the NVQ programme two years ago.

Designed by Greggs of Gosforth's training officers, Pauline Harrison and Carole Smith, the training meets City and Guilds standards, while being tailored to Greggs' requirements.

Mrs Smith said: "We piloted these qualifications with three of our shop managers two years ago.

"The programme was so successful that a number of shop managers and assistant managers asked to enrol.

"The 14 who have just completed the course are a mixture of former management trainees, experienced assistant managers and one manager.

"They have lots of different levels of ability and experience.

"Some are relatively new to the business, whilst others have been with Greggs for many years."

Among the successful candidates were Sandra Wilson from Middlesbrough, Tracey Rennison from Spennymoor, Christine Brown from Sunniside, Clare Lennon from Meadowfield and Kelly Crozier from Gateshead.