Two companies have been praised for improving the skills of their workers.

Digital agency Cyber-Duck, based in Elstree, and Borehamwood construction company Masterson Holdings were two of the eight companies selected from across Hertfordshire to showcase their skills provision at a celebratory dinner at Elstree Studios.

The companies showed video clips of the hard work they have put in to improve the skills of their staff to more than 100 employer training providers, local authority leaders and representatives from the University of Hertfordshire.

Hertsmere MP Oliver Dowden sent a congratulatory note to the winners and said: “It is wonderful to see so many fantastic local employers being showcased at this evening’s event. We are lucky in Hertfordshire to have such committed and dedicated employers and hard-working employees.

“In particular I’d like to congratulate Cyber-Duck and Masterson Holdings, both based in Hertsmere, on their nominations and wish them the very best of luck. Tonight is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate excellence and share good practice.”

TV presenter and engineer Kate Bellingham talked about her work in championing young women to consider careers in science.

David Williams, cabinet member for enterprise, education and skills at Hertfordshire County Council, said: "Recognising and celebrating the achievements of these apprentices is very important.

“Not only does it help to raise the profile of apprenticeships as a fantastic career opportunity for young people, but it also demonstrates to employers how apprentices can help address the skills gaps which face a number of local businesses.”