The employees encompassed Taylor Bloxham as well as its subsidiary businesses C&R and FastAnt and ranged from shop floor staff through to senior management.

Staff achieving the qualification were rewarded with a celebratory lunch at the company’s Beaumont Leys premises, which was attended by BPIF head of training Kay Smith, who provided the tuition.

HR Manager Louise Wilby said: "The course helped staff build personal relationships and it fits into our culture of team work and communication.

"The NVQ has reinforced the significance we place on excellent customer service at all levels of the business."

Training covered three aspects of customer service, including teamwork, communication and understanding and respect.

A further 26 employees have now started the level 2 training, while the company is also looking at the prospect of some staff working towards level 3.