The Duke chats to managing director Daron Hutt and other 4Com staff during his visit to the company's offices. 04/11/04AWARD-WINNING Salisbury telecommunications company 4Com won the royal seal of approval when it received a visit from the Duke of York.

The duke visited the premises of 4Com, in Watt Road, Churchfields industrial estate, following his engagement last Thursday at Salisbury District Hospital. He was greeted by the company's managing director, Daron Hutt, and, after being given a presentation on the company's operations, was taken on a tour of the premises and to meet members of the firm's staff.

He also took part in a demonstration of 4Com's latest addition to their product range, the innovative 4sightIP.

The duke remained with the company for lunch, which was attended by representatives of several other Wiltshire businesses, who were able to discuss export issues with the duke in his capacity as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment.

After the visit, Mr Hutt said: "The Duke of York showed genuine interest in what we do and how we do it - as well as a great deal of knowledge regarding the communications market."

The event crowned a year of success for 4Com.

In the past 12 months, the firm has been recognised as the 21st fastest-growing company in the UK in the Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track Awards, opened a 13,000sqft head office and a branch in Sheffield, and won the Siemens Reseller of the Year award, for the second time in four years.

Mr Hutt said: "The Duke of York's visit has been the icing on the cake - it's great to get approval from such a high level."