TWO young engineers have taken the first steps in their career thanks to a business grant from Ryedale District Council (RDC).

James Alexander and David Sawdon, who work for Ryedale Testing, received their Certificates of Competence from Councillor Linda Cowling, leader of the authority.

Ryedale Testing, which is based in Old Malton, was set up in 2007 by Nick Greenhalgh and Nick Simpson.

Mr Simpson said it had been at a time the construction industry started to go into decline.

"Ryedale Testing weathered the slowdown in the construction industry and were able to expand and purchase much-needed technical equipment only made possible by a grant from RDC," he said.

"Thanks to the business grant, Ryedale Testing has been able to offer employment to more than nine local people. Because we are locally based we have been able to assist local builders with competitive costs and we can be very generous with our time, and, of course, support the local economy.”

Mr Greenhalgh said the company had responded to changes in regulations, in which buildings are now required to be tested for air tightness and acoustic performance.

"Ryedale Testing has worked with nearly every major house builder in UK and a number of high profile eco projects, but find assisting local self-build projects the most rewarding," he said.

"Because we are locally based we can compete competitively with providers outside the Ryedale area and, of course, a reduced carbon footprint is fundamental to our work."

David and James said they were delighted to have joined the Ryedale Testing Team.

James said: “There are lots of opportunities for further personal development within Ryedale Testing. It’s an unusual and interesting job that attracts a lot of attention on site, builders can’t believe where houses can leak air from.”

Councillor Linda Cowling said: ''The business grant from Ryedale District Council has been able to help a local company develop and as a result of this employ more staff.

"This is especially important as Ryedale Testing carry out such an essential role for our local house building industry."