DEDICATED workers in Derwentside are boosting their company's performance, thanks to a new training programme.

About 90 per cent of staff at Schmitz Cargobull (UK), in Harelaw, have taken advantage of a series of courses and development schemes at Derwentside College to improve their practical training and qualifications.

The company contacted Derwentside College's business development unit, which has developed a relationship with a number of businesses in the region, to find how their skills could be enhanced.

The college then organised several training programmes for Schmitz Cargobull workers, with the aim of supporting training across all areas of the business, leading to NVQ qualifications.

David Sidlow, operations director and deputy chairman, said: "Increasing the skills and knowledge of our workforce is critical in helping Schmitz Cargobull to succeed and grow in the face of a very tough business environment.

Schmitz Cargobull (UK) was established in 1991 and is now among the market leaders in the supply of refrigerated and curtainsider trailers.

To find out more about the college's training schemes, call Gillian Dyson or Angela Fleming on (01207) 585914.