Spooner Industries, of Ilkley, took home the Manufacturer of the Year award. The company develops technologies for processes such as drying, baking, cooling, air pollution abatement and non-contact handling of a diverse range of products.

Spooner's team of specialist engineers carry out everything from concept design and manufacture to full installation, commissioning and maintenance.

Manufacturing director Robert Proctor, 52, who said most of the UK's bread is baked in Spooner equipment, stated: "It is a pleasure to accept any award for something where you are just doing your job.

"As a company we are striving forward, with 110 per cent growth per year.

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"What we rely on is good people, good people who can drive the business forward.

"We are a world leader in what we do. Everything is bespoke design."

On the award, he added: "It is a bit of a surprise. Effectively it is an award for just doing your job. The company has worked hard in all manner of areas - there has been a lot of hard work.

"We take on six or seven apprentices a year. We are about engaging with people, learning and taking things on board.

"We have a happy team, excellent staff retention, people start from school and stay on all the way through.

"I want to say thank you to all the staff. It is a happy team and that's the way it needs to be.

"We are very proud, it will take pride of place in the company awards."

The company, established in 1932, has 160 employees and 40 contractors.

Highly commended by judges were Metalcraft Europe and Christeyns UK.