A FACTORY in Winkleigh that was on the brink of liquidation a year ago has scooped a prestigious supplier award for its services.

Forthglade Foods Ltd has clinched a Pets Choice Suppliers' Award from Pets at Home, the UK's leading pet retailer. The award recognises the company's hard work to improve product quality and customer service over the last year.

The pet food specialist was placed into administration in September 2011 after HM Revenue and Customs petitioned for the company to be wound up for debts in the region of £250,000. It was purchased a month later by a team of six shareholders, securing the future of 55 jobs.

Since then the company has gone from strength to strength, increasing the workforce to 60 employees and the business' turnover by 20%.

Forthglade now specialises in wet dog food, providing a rich source of protein and nutrients for family pets. The company is now poised to launch a new range of products at the start of 2013, catering for cats and dogs with smaller appetities.

The award was presented to joint managing directors Chris Brooking and Gerard Lovell at a ceremony in Manchester.

Mr Lovell, joint managing director, said: 'Receiving the Pets Choice Award is a very proud moment for all those involved in Forthglade.

'The award clearly recognises the efforts and hard work of the 60 Forthglade employees and the valuable support received from its suppliers. We are all delighted to receive the award as we continue to develop the business which is an essential element to the local economy.'

Fellow joint managing director Mr Brooking said: 'Forthglade Foods Ltd has had a very successful first year. The business has made significant investment in automation and in improving the fabric of the manufacturing facility.

'The largest investment, due for installation towards the end of the year, will double the manufacturing capacity of the site and allow us to meet the ever increasing demand for our products. 

'During the year we have re-launched the Forthglade brand and grown volume both nationally and internationally.

'In achieving our growth this year we have relied on many local businesses and want to take this opportunity to thank them for their support.'