ESTATE agency Hudson Moody, which has six branches in York, has been awarded Investors in People (IIP) status.

Partners Ben Hudson and Peter Moody started on the IIP track realising that it was a necessary progression for a fast-growing company. They were helped along the way by Business Link York and North Yorkshire.

Debbie Deams, human resources manager, said: "Having achieved the standard we feel, as a company that we are better able to provide a more efficient

service to our customers and clients, and at the same time ensure that our staff feel valued and appreciated in the workplace.

"In a fast moving company it is always difficult to find time to train, motivate and evaluate progress.

"But having taken time out to re-organise and

re-evaluate our methods and structures, the benefit has been tremendous."

Updated: 11:19 Wednesday, November 02, 2005