The managing director of a Sheppey firm has been recognised for his hard work and dedication.

Chris Woollett from The Bond Group in New Road, Sheerness, was presented with the gold award for lifetime achievement and contribution to the industry last week.

He and nine colleagues from the firm, which provides refurbishment for refrigerated display cabinets used in UK supermarkets, went to the RAC Cooling Industry Awards at the Hilton Hotel in Park Lane, London, on Wednesday.

There were around 750 representatives from within the industry at the bash and 18 awards given out.

The gold award is the only one which companies do not nominate for – a panel of judges choose a winner so it was a complete surprise to Mr Woollett when his name was announced.

It is given out to those who have made a significant contribution to the environmental progress of the industry and Mr Woollett has been lobbying MPs and has been raising awareness about the importance of recycling equipment.

The 61-year-old has been at the company, which his brother Roger started, since 1978 and he took on the MD role in 1999.

He said: “I had no idea at all this was on the cards – it was a big surprise.

“I do feel quite proud – it’s been a lot of work and it’s nice that people recognise it.

“It’s good for Bonds.”

Sales and marketing director Phil Proudman said: “All at The Bond Group would like to congratulate Chris for all the hard work he has put in.”