ACCRINGTON-based paving manufacturer Marshalls has become the first company of its kind to offer NVQ qualifications to building contractors.

The move is seen as a demonstration of the industry's confidence in its efforts to encourage quality workmanship in the domestic landscape market.

Following formal accreditation by the Construction Industry training Board (CITB) and City & Guilds, Marshalls can now award contractors NVQ Level 2 qualifications in construction and civil engineering operations.

Landscapers complete an on-site training and assessment programme to gain their qualification to avoid having to spend time away from the work place. Successful contractors also automatically qualify for a Construction Skills Certification Scheme card which is important when working on both domestic and commercial projects.

The training scheme builds on Marshalls' pioneering scheme to help customers find reputable workmen. Under its Register of Approved Landscape Contractors and Driveway Installers, members are strictly vetted for the quality of their workmanship. They are then eligible to offer Marshalls' ten-year guarantee which covers both materials and labour.

Graham Holden, chief executive of Marshalls' Landscape Division, said the register had proved extremely successful in providing peace of mind to people wary of cowboy traders.

"This is a significant milestone for Marshalls and a credit to the commitment our register members have shown in developing their business," he said.

"We can now recognise their efforts and expertise with a vocational qualification and hope that this in turn will provide consumers with more contractors that they know they can trust for first-class results."

The Marshalls' training programme has been welcomed by the Construction Industry Training Board. Deputy chairman, Peter Rogerson, said: "CITB is delighted that Marshalls has decided to join the on-site assessment training programme. NVQs are an excellent way to recognise individuals' skills. They will add to a company's confidence in its workforce and clients' confidence in the company."