SPP Pumps has been recognised as one of the Thames Valley's best Apprenticeship Employers in the regional final of the National Apprenticeship Awards 2013.

The manufacturer of centrifugal pumps and systems, was awarded second place in the 'Large Employer of the Year' category at a high profile ceremony held at the Madejski Stadium last week, beating off competition from companies including Virgin Media and Cisco Systems.

Retention of skilled apprentices has enabled SPP to sustain progressive growth since 2003, resulting in an increase in turnover from £20m to £60m in 2013.

SPP'S Apprenticeship Scheme is about developing partnerships with individuals and organisations within the community, sharing best practice and working to make a difference to people and business. SPP apprentices also take on ambassadorial and charitable work.

Site services manager for SPP, Gary Hurcombe, said: 'We are very proud of our apprentices and the passion they show to working for us. They make a huge contribution to our success and I have no doubt we'll continue to run the scheme for many years to come. '

The National Apprenticeship Awards celebrate the achievements of the country's most outstanding Apprenticeship employers. Mark Howard, southern divisional apprenticeship director for the National Apprenticeship Service, said: 'This year's awards were an exceptional showcase of the outstanding apprentices and employers we have in our region. Given the high volume and extraordinary calibre of entries we received, those who reached the regional final really are the cream of the crop.'

'I'd like to congratulate SPP Pumps - the company really is a shining example of how apprenticeships can allow employers to grow their own talent and enables their apprentices to build real careers.'