A Dunmow-based company is celebrating after being presented with a prestigious award by the Ministry of Defence.

Containerlift has been praised for its commitment to The Defence Employment Recognition Scheme – an initiative which encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same.

The lifting and shipping company scooped a bronze award after showing their support by employing a number of ex-forces personnel.

Joost Baker, managing director, said: “At least 20% of our drivers are ex-forces, who often enter the industry with little or no experience of civilian employment, but we believe they are worth the time and investment.

“Last year we visited a squadron to deliver driver training and on the back of this we employed a driver. He had very little road experience driving an articulated vehicle so with a bit of training he now has a successful career within the industry.”