Long-established Cross Hills printing firm Dixon Target has gained the acclaimed Investor in People award.

The title coveted by all modern businesses was confirmed by an independent external assessment in January, which found the company met all the exacting standards required.

Dixon Target, which employs 17 people, now joins a select band of businesses large and small in all sectors of the economy which have been able to demonstrate the essential ingredients.

These include business planning, communication and understanding of goals, implementation and evaluation of training and demonstrable evidence of putting employees at the heart of the business.

Bradford TEC advised the company on its preparation for the inspection, and the assessor highly commended Dixon Target on its submissions and commitment to staff training.

Although it is operating in an industry with roots in a traditional craft base, the company has moved to modern technology through a combination of internal and external training. Information technology plays a big part in the management of the business, and training plans will ensure that the company has an effective, efficient and flexible workforce.

Managing director Alan Markham said: "I have always been determined to achieve recognition as an Investor in People, for it indicates that an independent assessor has certified that the standard for modern business has been operating for some time.

"My belief that the way we operate here met the standards has been confirmed. It is not an easy job to get the recognition, and it reflects well on the whole of our staff."

The IiP plaque was presented to Mr Markham by John Messenger, from the former Bradford TEC. John now works at the new Learning and Skills Council, successor body to the TEC.

The certificate was handed over to Dixon Target's longest-serving employee Colin Bage, who has been with the company for 40 years.