Bradford social housing provider Incommunities has won a diverity award.

The Incommunities Group was presented with the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) diversity award for encouraging women and people from minority ethnic backgrounds to work in construction.

Of the 560 applicants who applied for its 2012 apprenticeship programme, 25 per cent were black or minority ethnic (BME) and five per cent were women.

Incommunities also encourages female apprentices to act as ambassadors, raising awareness of the opportunities in construction and showing how it can be a good career choice for women.

Delroy Beverley, chief executive of the property side of the business, said it was now normal to see tradeswomen working on their sites.

He said: “Our programme and work is something we are very proud of and is a real example to other organisations of just what can be achieved.”

The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, presented the award at a ceremony at the Science Museum in London.

After receiving the award, Sue Laycock, director for Human Resources, said: “It is important for Bradford to be representative of the community in which we work.

“We strive to represent women and BME communities and by doing so we can provide a better service to our communities and our people.”

Trudy Norris-Grey, chairman of the WISE Campaign, said: "The desire to make a difference shines out from all the winners.

“These women and girls bring vision, creativity, commitment and, above all, a passion for what they do, which is truly inspiring.

“Britain needs more like them to bring their talents into UK industry.”