Royal seal of approval for Disley businessman

Phill Brown, who runs Manchester-based Benchmark Building Supplies Ltd, receives his award for services to business.

In addition to being a founder and managing director of the independent builders merchant, Phill is equally well known for his work involved in youth training and creating apprenticeships for young people across Stockport and Tameside.

He said: “I am extremely honoured to be the recipient of this award, and I regard it as much a tribute to the people within Benchmark, Stockport and Tameside councils, and the colleges we work with.

“I also hope and feel that it is an honour shared with the many young people who have got their lives on track via training and apprenticeships, often against the odds and after a difficult start.”

Phill regularly attends Downing Street strategy meetings with government ministers advising on apprenticeships and combating youth worklessness.

His own company has placed over 100 ‘NEETS’ - young people not in training or employment – into employment in the last three years.