Potts Print (UK) has built on recent expansion at the Cramlington, Northumberland-based business with the introduction of an awards scheme for long-serving staff.

The first employees recognised under the new scheme were Barry Goddard and Alan Herbertson, who have worked at the business for 21 and 27 years respectively.

Both Goddard and Herbertson were presented with a certificate and reward by chairman Michael Sandford-Couch and managing director Shaun Johnson, for their long-standing service to the company.

Johnson said: "I think it’s great in a successful firm to see the staff being rewarded for all their hard work and effort. Barry and Alan sum up what is good about Potts Print (UK). Well done to both of them."

The company has also announced the launch of the Potts Print (UK) Training & Skills Academy, which aims to help offer school, sixth form and college leavers a route into employment within the company.

Starting next year, the project will cover the areas of print production, operations, business development, finance, IT, and creative services.

"The ongoing success of Potts Print (UK) is all down to the staff. They are the unsung heroes. Their dedication and energy drive this company forward, year on year," said Sandford-Couch.

Earlier this year Potts Print (UK) expanded is print operation with the installation of a Xerox 4112 and a Xerox 700 digital colour press.

The group is aiming to surpass the ￡14m-turnover mark in 2011 and has taken on 20 new staff since the start of the year following a "record" 12 months for the company in 2010.