Automotive companies and individuals were recognised for their focus on skills at the Institute of the Motor Industry's anual dinner last week.

Two years since the IMI launched the Skillmiles scheme to recognise the work put into skills development across the automotive sector, IMI executive chair Sarah Sillars announced the awards to pay tribute to those actively making a difference to the industry.

The winners were The Honda Institute – Platinum Award (Large Company); S&B Automotive Academy – Platinum Award (Medium Company); VBRA – Platinum Award (Small Company); John Taylor – Platinum Award (Sole Trader); Thatcham – Special Recognition Award; IMI Awards Limited – Outstanding Contribution Award.

Sillars said: “To date there are 145 employers registered on our Skillmiles database and 118,000 Skillmiles points have been awarded this year.

"When we add this to the total awarded last year it’s the equivalent of over £2 million worth of support from across the sector for the benefit to the industry as a whole.

"This is a fantastic achievement and thanks must go to all the contributors who have helped the IMI to continue to support the wider industry”