AN Abergavenny construction company is celebrating after being crowned National Responsible Business Champion 2016.

Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd fought off stiff competition from runners-up Zurich Insurance and third-placed Canary Wharf Group to scoop the prestigious accolade from the All-Party Parliamentary Corporate Responsibility Group (APCRG).

The privately-owned company was presented with its award during a recent reception at the House of Commons.

Monmouth MP David Davies nominated Griffiths, established in 1968, in recognition of the central role of fairness, inclusion and respect in its business approach.

The judging panel was particularly impressed with Griffiths’ working practice, treatment of suppliers and strong community engagement.

Jonathan Djanogly MP, co-chair of the APCRG, said: “The judges commend its (Griffiths’) support for the local community and investment in healthy workplaces.

“But where this company really stood out was in its support for equality and diversity and, particularly, its support for older workers.”

20 per cent of the company’s board members are female, while the age range of the workforce extends from 16 to 81 years of age – with many employees working into their 70s.

Griffiths regularly hosts Women’s Careers in Construction events and also supports the government’s #notjustforboys campaign.

“The company believes this commitment to equality and diversity is the reason for its industry-leading low turnover rates of 1.03 per cent and we agree,” added Mr Djanogly.

“We hope that other companies will follow this lead.”

Griffiths’ executive director Martyn Evans said: “It is a great honour to receive this national award recognising our long-term commitment to all aspects of corporate responsibility.

“Credit must go to our staff for their genuine dedication in proactively engaging with the communities in which we work.

“It’s fantastic to see the profile of Wales raised through this national recognition of achievement.”

David Davies MP said: “I was delighted to put forward Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd as the Responsible Business Champion for the Monmouth constituency.

“Griffiths is one of the most respected companies in Monmouthshire and indeed Wales.

“It is a very forward-thinking company which promotes civil engineering as a career choice for women and has a hugely diverse age range in the workforce.

“As national award-winners, I hope Griffiths will be encouraged to continue with the excellent work which has led to this success.”

The APCRG National Business Champions scheme is supported by longstanding APCRG member National Grid plc, Business in the Community’s Responsible Business of the Year 2014/15.