A UNIQUE industry training organisation has celebrated its 60th anniversary.

Darlington-based Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA), the sole provider of thermal insulation apprenticeships within the UK, celebrated with members.

Founded in its current format in 1957, TICA, a trade association, was set up to maintain industry skills and bring about a collective working agreement.

It represents more than 100 members across the UK.

Speaking at the company’s annual general meeting, before the celebratory evening event, TICA chief executive Marion Marsland said: “I am most proud of how we collaborate across the sector and pleased we have so many representatives here with us who facilitate what TICA does.”

The association employs 18 full-time staff who facilitate the body’s National Training Centre, which trains between 80 and 120 apprentices each year.

They also administer the CSCS TICA skill card, manage membership and all member benefits including HR support, recruitment and general advice and guidance relating to insulation.

The centre is also home to the head office for ACAD, the asbestos control and abatement division of TICA.

“I hope that the future for TICA is another 60 successful years of collaboration,” said Mrs Marsland.

Alan Green, former committee member, governing council member and past president, spoke at the celebrations.

He said: “I believe what makes TICA different from other federations and associations is the dedication and commitment of both the chief executive and her team, plus the amount of effort that each of the different arms of TICA put in.”