THE operations manager of a local company which weaves carpets for premier hotels and casinos in America has described its employees as its "most valuable asset."

Peter Jarvis of Couristan Carpets Ltd., Eccleston Street, was addressing representatives of private and public sector employers of other St Helens companies at a seminar to discuss the latest developments in 'learning in the workplace.'.

He told delegates: "Couristan make the best carpets in the world and is currently weaving carpets for exclusive clients all over the world."

And he added: "The workforce of St Helens is world class."

Talking about workforce development, he went on to explain how many of the company's workers had learnt to use computers out of personal curiosity which also helped them understand new technology at work.

Other subjects covered at the half-day event included Ford's pioneering Employee Development Assistance Programme, on-site learning centres and a presentation on 'learndirect' by the University for Industry.

Organised by St Helens Chamber, the seminar was held at the Business Net Solutions state-of-the-art technology centre in the SmithKline Beecham Building, Water Street.