An engineering firm has won two awards at a regional manufacturing awards ceremony.

R&B Switchgear Group, based in Heywood, was recognised at the Make UK awards for its work in the industry.

The company, which has almost 40 years of experience, provides power engineering solutions for the marine, oil and gas, healthcare, education, rail, renewables, and energy sectors.

The awards ceremony, organised by Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, was held in Burnley to celebrate the achievements of companies from across the North West.

R&B Switchgear was presented with the Make UK North West Developing Future Talent Award as well as the Business Growth Award sponsored by Tritax.

The awards were given in recognition of its efforts to fuel growth by developing a future pipeline of talent, including setting up an Apprentice Academy and working with local colleges.

The need to develop this future pipeline of talent has been fuelled by the 'rapid growth of the company', which has led to an expansion of new operations in Southampton and Sunderland in addition to existing operations in Manchester, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Singapore.

This has resulted in the company setting 'increasingly ambitious' targets each year, nearly tripling its revenue since 2021.

Dawn Huntrod, region director for Make UK in the North, said: "These awards are a testament to the dynamic companies and individuals working within engineering and manufacturing.

"The sector remains at the heart of creating wealth in the North West and as we grow our economy there will be a bright future for companies and individuals that make the most of their talent."

Mark Beswick, managing director at R&B Switchgear Group, said: "We are incredibly proud to celebrate our double victory at the Make UK Awards, recognising not only our commitment to business growth but also our dedication to developing the next generation of talent.

"These awards are a testament to the hard work and innovation of our team, as well as the strong partnerships we have built within our community.

"As we continue to expand our operations and enhance our capabilities, we remain focused on nurturing talent and fostering a sustainable future for the industry.

"We look forward to representing the North West region at the National Finals and demonstrating how our UK-based manufacturing is paving the way for innovation in our sector."

Mark Fergusson, head of occupational leasing at Tritax Big Box, said: "Congratulations to the well-deserved regional winners of Make UK’s 2024 Business Growth and Strategy Award.

"We recognise the amazing contribution that these companies make to the UK – driving innovation through R&D, generating millions of jobs, investing in skills and delivering products that make lives better.

"We are delighted to have sponsored this important Make UK award, which shines a light on those manufacturers at the forefront of innovation, who have delivered on bold and dynamic growth strategies."

R&B Switchgear will go on to compete in the national finals against other companies around the UK in January.