Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has been named as one of the best not for profit organisations to work for by The Sunday Times.

The best companies awards recognise businesses that have exceptional investment in their employees, and the chamber said it's delighted to retain this recognition for the third year in a row.

The chamber, which was established in 1832 to support local firms, was also handed a special award for best improver.

The chamber is the only one of its kind in the UK to feature on the list for 2020.

Chief executive Sharon Smith said: “I am delighted that the chamber has been recognised on a national scale, this year is the highest rank we have achieved in The Sunday Times top 100 list, which recognises the high level of support and engagement of our employees, who in turn deliver an exceptional service to our members.”

“To also be commended as best improver is a great honour as it shows our vision of growing as a chamber in order to provide more support to our members and the local community.

"This award shows the hard work each department provides to ensure businesses in the region have the support they need to grow.”

There was also recognition for other businesses in the two counties as Halfords, Bishop Fleming and St Michael’s Hospice were all named in the various best companies to work for 2020 categories.

HR director Dawn Hardman said: “I am very proud that we have been named as the 20th best not for profit organisation to work for this year.

"We have worked hard to create and sustain a culture which places staff engagement at the top of the HR agenda."