A BLACKHEATH firm have become the first company in the Midlands – and only the third in the country – to receive accreditation as a Witter/Westfalia Approved Service Centre.

Towcraft Ltd have been praised by Witter/Westfalia, the largest towbar and towing accessory manufacturers in the UK and Europe, who are looking to establish centres of excellence that will give safety assurances to customers.

Staff at the Birmingham Road business were joined at a recent event by Sandwell councillors Kerrie Carmichael and Danny Millard and a number of long standing Towcraft customers – many of whom have been doing business with the company for over 40 years – to celebrate the company’s achievement.

Cllr Carmichael said: “It is great news that a local, family business is being recognised in this way by a global concern like Witter/Westfalia. It is thoroughly deserved recognition for a well-run company that has customer service at the heart of everything that it does.

“Being the first company in the Midlands and only the third in the UK to receive this accreditation will hopefully bring more business to the region and in turn help create more jobs.

“Everyone concerned with Towcraft is to be congratulated for their hard work and professionalism that has made today possible.”

Towcraft director Trevor Guest added: “This a very proud day for all concerned with Towcraft. We are delighted to be recognised in this way and every member of our team can take credit for the part that they have played in being awarded this accreditation.”

MP James Morris and newly elected deputy mayor Cllr Carol Goult will be meeting with Towcraft management on June 15 to discuss what the accreditation will mean to the company.

They will also discuss how the proposed legislation regarding licensing all trailers under 3.5 tonnes, currently going through the parliamentary process, will safeguard the public following a number of high profile accidents, including fatalities.