The Security Industry training organisation has recognised the UK's top security training professionals in its National Training Awards 2005. SITO managing director Stefan Hay said: "The winners have revealed both dedication and excellence in security industry training and skills development, and more than deserve their awards and the recognition of their peers."

Winners were:

Award for Outstanding Training Practice within an Organisation (sponsored by Jobcentre Plus): Wilson James Ltd, for the development of a staff management training programme aimed at Team Leaders and First Line Managers. Highly Commended: Initial Training Centre; The University of York.

Award for Outstanding Practice by a Training Provider (sponsored by Jobcentre Plus): Joint Winners: Kennedy Scott, for its 'Women in Security Initiative' which places unemployed London women into employment within the security industry; and National Security Inspectorate, for an initiative to educate the intruder alarm sector on new Euro Standards.

Award for Outstanding Training Partnership (sponsored by Jobcentre Plus): CVIT Training Strategy Group, for an innovative training DVD/video produced to assist CVIT couriers in passing the examination required for SIA licensing. Highly Commended: VSG Ltd.

Award for Best Training Professional (sponsored by SSR Personnel Services Ltd): Tony Brend, NSI, for his commitment to improving knowledge and standards within the security systems sector during his 11 years working for the NSI. Highly Commended: David Millett, Initial Training Centre; Sam Lewis, Train 4 Security Ltd.

The Open Palm Award (sponsored by Maybo Ltd): VSG Ltd, for its conflict management strategy which emphasised risk management and deterrence rather than direct action. Highly Commended: Blackpool Borough Council.

Chairman's Award for Excellence (sponsored by Security Management Today): Police National Search Centre, for its partnership-driven approach training on all aspects of search training and its expertise in evaluating, planning and delivering security to individuals and events.