INVESTORS in People has praised Bury firm Pennine Telecom for a cultural shift which has created a “very positive organisation”.

And through investing in its workforce, the Salford Street company is well placed to come through the current recession and make the most of opportunities new technologies will bring.

In a report detailing why the telecoms, data and radio communications firm had secured the prestigious standard, Investors in People North West listed no fewer than 23 corporate strengths.

The assessment noted that key to the company’s success was a management buy-out led by managing director Andrew Roberts in 2003.

Mr Roberts said: “This award provides independent, expert recognition of Pennine Telecom’s commitment to excellence and investment in staff induction, training and development.“ The award follows Pennine’s recent acquisition of Burnley telephone systems specialist PAS Partnership which is set to foster further business growth. The company already employs around 60 staff and generates more than £6 million turnover.