Fresh from winning the Best Training Initiative category at the 2002 Security Excellence Awards (and having been bestowed with the BSIA Chairman's Award back in July), Widnes-based manned security contractor Noble Security Services and its partners in the Trafford Guardsafe and Trafford Park Security Initiative have now been judged first in the Outstanding Training Partnership category at this year's SITO National Training Awards.

Described by awards presenter and SIA chief executive John Saunders as "the perfect example of the private sector working in harmony with the police, local businesses and the community to reduce crime", the Guardsafe scheme was commended for its dedication to "focused security officer training and development".

Although the Trafford Park Security Initiative draws to a close next February, SMT will keep tabs on developments with Guardsafe – and its key role in the formation of an 'extended police family'.