STAFF at a Pickering-based catering equipment supplier are helping a husband and wife duo celebrate a quarter of a century with the business.

Vanessa and Ady Boyes joined Invicta Bakeware within two months of each other in 1989.

Although the couple had met prior to starting their employment at Invicta, it was not until they worked together that romance blossomed. Their marriage in 1997 was attended by many colleagues and the then managing director of the company drove the bride to the wedding in his own car.

Mrs Boyes, now Sales Office manager, said: "One of the fantastic things about Invicta is the close family atmosphere.

"People often ask what it’s like to work with your spouse but it is great being part of the same team and sharing that common ground."

Like Mrs Boyes, who worked up from Office Clerk, Mr Boyes has progressed from the factory where he hand crafted tins, to become one of the drivers.

As well as Mr and Mrs Boyes, nine other members of Invicta’s staff have been with the firm for 25 years and more.

Managing director, John Waddington, who himself has been with Invicta for more than 30 years, said: "This continuity and dedication is undoubtedly reflected in the inclusive family approach to business and strong sense of customer service for which Invicta is known throughout the industry.

Invicta Bakeware was in 1912 and for most of its history was under the care of the Jones family after Peter Jones bought the business in 1925. Until recently the third generation of that family was still represented on the board of directors.