THE Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, visited Dorset’s Trimetals Limited to make a formal presentation of the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

The award is for International Trade, recognising the Blandford Forum-based company’s significant and sustained growth in global markets.

Representing the crown, the Lord Lieutenant took a tour of the factory, meeting the company’s 28 staff and learning about the wide range of products that has brought international success for the specialist metal storage manufacturer.

During the formal ceremony, the Lord Lieutenant presented the coveted crystal bowl to Trimetals international sales executive Ben Smith, honouring some impressive export figures. In the last six years the company’s international sales growth has averaged 33 per cent per annum and totalled 283 per cent. Overseas trade now accounts for 18 per cent of the company’s revenue.

Mr Smith said: “This is an incredibly proud day for all of us here at Trimetals and for British manufacturing. The entire team works tirelessly to ensure every product made here in Dorset is world-class – whether it’s destined for a local retailer or some exotic shore in the southern hemisphere.”

Alongside its established metal garden sheds and storage units for lawnmowers, tools and patio furniture, Trimetals is also renowned for the durability and security provided by its ranges of bicycle and motorcycle storage for domestic users. Trimetals products are also utilised by numerous companies and organisations such as landscapers, golf and football clubs and schools.

This Queen’s Award is the second royal badge of honour for Trimetals, with its products having recently achieved status as the only metal sheds and garden storage approved by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Trimetals’ has earned deals with major retailers.