THE oldest family-owned building contractor in the North-East is celebrating its 150th anniversary.

T Manners and Sons, of Bishop Auckland, was founded in 1860 and is now a fifth-generation company with a turnover of more than £10m.

It plans to thank its 60-strong workforce and customers for their loyalty with a series of events, including a staff day out at the races.

The company has completed major projects for the education sector, industrial and commercial clients and NHS trusts, including a new cardiology department for South Tyneside District Hospital.

Its specialist joinery division is in demand for everything from the restoration of listed buildings, churches, casinos and hotels to creating the media desk for the 2012 Olympics.

Alison Davies, senior business solutions manager for Investors in People North-East, said: “These are difficult times and this company deserves a real pat on the back, not only for reaching such a significant anniversary, but also for the effort and commitment it has shown in using Investors in People to help steer it through the recession.

“That investment is reaping rewards now and also places Manners in a strong position for the future.”

A changing market and new frameworks for tendering means companies in the building sector are under increasing pressure.

Kath Manners, company human resources and training manager, said they were increasingly finding themselves competing against large national contractors.

She said: “Every employee has a vital role to play in our efficiency, profitability and in attracting and retaining clients.”