ATB Morley was presented with the Queen's Awards for Enterprise International Trade 2009 by The Duke of Kent when he visited the firm.

The Pudsey-based company designs, manufactures and exports high voltage electric motors for global coal mining markets.

It was established in 1897 and scooped the award for its trade relationships with China.

His Royal Highness toured the motor manufacturing processes. Last December the Duke of York visited the 200-strong workforce.

ATB also officially announced the launch of an education initiative with Bradford University's School of Engineering.

The scheme aims to raise awareness of the factory and its
opportunities, alongside aiming to continue to support young engineers in the Yorkshire region.

Ian Lomax, managing director, said: "Contrary to popular belief, manufacturing is alive and kicking in the UK. Some 50 per cent of all exports come from UK manufacturing and the UK is still the sixth largest manufacturer in the world.

"We are keen to promote manufacturing through the local schools and universities, who probably do not even realise we exist."