A COMPANY rewarded for actively seeking older employees has called for businesses to support this year's Age Positive scheme.

Shopwatch Security Systems of Trowbridge won the 2002 Wiltshire award for fighting against age discrimination and promoting the benefits of older workers.

The Government-backed Age Positive Awards 2004, supported by the Wiltshire Times, rewards companies and individuals for breaking down the age barrier.

Managing director of Shop-watch, Brian Hinton said: "A lot of older people when they are made redundant or finish their time in a particular job find it difficult to get employment.

"One person who comes to mind was made redundant and came to us for a while and ended up securing a well-paid job later on because he had got back on the employment ladder.

"We actively try and get older people because they are reliable, have great communication skills, can deal well with people and have commitments so they are eager to work."

Shopwatch employs security staff for retail stores and warehouses throughout Avon, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Mr Hinton believes other companies in the region would benefit from taking a similar age policy.

He said: "Last time we were nominated by someone and were so surprised to win.

"Maybe it's the business we are in but we believe an older person brings a lot more to the job, they are very experienced of course.

"We would encourage other companies to follow our lead because we have had some very successful employees who are of the older generation.

"As a company we are very proud of our stance and we help older workers get back on a rung on the ladder and many have moved on into successful jobs after we gave them a chance.

"The oldest person we employed was 63 years old and he was a great asset and only left at retirement age, we really do miss his expertise and experience."

The winning companies get the chance to visit 11 Downing Street and will be treated to a dinner at Lancaster House in London and permitted to use the Age Positive logo.

Individuals can enter the awards if they have challenged age issues at work or persevered and won a position irrespective of their age.

Business awards will also be presented, rewarding companies demonstrating positive attitudes or removing age barriers at work.

To enter log onto www.agepositive.gov.uk or send the nominations to Kate Matthews, Geronimo Public Relations, Athene House, The Broadway, Mill Hill, London NW7 3TD by May 21.