A HAGLEY businessman has been awarded for outstanding achievement in the air conditioning industry.

John Whitehouse, who owns West Bromwich-based Weatherite Group, was named the winner of the Fred Jamieson Award for Industry Achievement at the RAC Cooling Industry Awards in front of 500 people at a London ceremony.

Mr Whitehouse, 72, who has been working in the air conditioning industry for 53 years, said he was “humbled” to receive the award, adding: “My passion for the industry was ignited in 1963, a passion that has burnt fiercely inside me for 53 years and counting.

“It’s great to have my senior leadership team here celebrating with me; one of them has been with me from the start of Weatherite.”

Throughout the years, Mr Whitehouse has invested in many green technologies, including adsorption chillers, and has funded research by the University of Birmingham to advance this technology further.

Andrew Gaved, editor-in-chief at RAC Magazine and the Cooling Awards organiser, said: “The Fred Jamieson Award is given in recognition of people who can point to a successful career showing real entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for the cooling industry.

“Given that John now has 53 years under his belt and that his thirst for innovation and business is as keen as ever, he fits the bill perfectly.

“It is a great pleasure to be able to present him with this award.”