A PLANT and hire firm from Leigh run by two brothers has won a national award.

Astley Hire Limited, whose office is on the Moss Industrial Estate in Sandy Lane, Leigh, has been judged Hire Company of the Year for 1996 in the prestigious contest which is open to all small plant hire companies throughout the country.

Founded in 1966, the firm also has a branch in Bolton and is run by Mike Dorricott, 41, who is in charge of the hire depots, and Stephen Dorricott, 39, who looks after finance and marketing.

The citation received by the firm says: "A two depot company, based in Lancashire, with a great commitment to service. Friendly and knowledgeable staff deal efficiently with enquiries, and testimonials from clients showed that they frequently go that little bit further to ensure customer satisfaction.

"Always ready to liaise with fellow independent hirers on matters of mutual concern, and a supporter of the ideals promoted by Hire Association Europe."

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