A firm where staff have more than 1,000 years experience in the nuclear industry between them had no lost-time accidents during 2013.

The announcement came from Capenhurst Nuclear Services (CNS) which has just completed its first full year of operations.

The firm was welcoming Chester MP Stephen Mosley following an earlier visit by Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Andrew Miller.

Mr Mosley also presented a civil technician at the company, Mr David Fletcher, with an award for achieving the highest number of safety observations during 2013.

The MP last visited Capenhurst site in early 2011 prior to the company’s formation.

His visit coincided with it achieving no lost time accidents during the year which CNS marked by donating �1,000 to Arthritis Research UK, a charity chosen by Mr Fletcher.

It explained that safety observations are undertaken by employees to discuss hazards and safe working practices and to promote constant risk awareness amongst the workforce.

Mr Mosley believes the Capenhurst site plays ‘an essential role’ in the local economy.

“Today has been a great opportunity to meet the staff and hear about the changes that have taken place since my last visit.

“I’m encouraged to hear about the great work the company does locally, employing well-qualified and hard-working staff that are putting Chester at the heart of the UK’s nuclear industry.

“There is one thing that strikes me every time I visit this site: for everybody here at Capenhurst, safety is paramount.

“This means that we can reap the benefits of this impressive local facility while knowing that what they do is safe and clean.”

Mr Mosley thanked the company for the invitation and congratulated Mr Fletcher.

Mr Fletcher commented:“I’m absolutely delighted with my award.

“It’s great that we incurred no lost time due to accidents last year at CNS and I very much hope that record continues for the foreseeable future.”

Managing director of CNS, Mr David Slater, said:“I would like to thank Stephen for taking the time to visit us.

“Last year’s achievement has set an important precedent and I would like to congratulate Dave on his award.

“We take great pride in recognising the continuous efforts of everyone working at CNS and look forward to future success in 2014.”

The company began operations in 2012 following a long term contract with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.

It points out its ‘highly skilled workforce’ has over 1,000 years of combined nuclear experience.