Newport-based family funeral directors Tovey Bros has won a national training accolade at the Funeral Planner of the Year Awards.

The city’s longest-established funeral directors took home the Staff Training and Development Award.

Hosted by writer, broadcaster and former MP Gyles Brandreth, the ceremony took place in central London and highlighted the achievements of independent funeral directors throughout the UK and Ireland.

James Tovey, who is the sixth generation family member to run Tovey Bros, said: "The people who work at Tovey Bros are its most important asset, as we care for the bereaved and their families. We are fortunate to have a very dedicated team and it makes sense to invest in all of them through both internal and external training.

“Our long-time accreditation as Investors in People is testament to this. It is lovely for all of our team to receive this national recognition in what was a highly contested award category.’’

Tovey’s was also runner-up in two other categories – Family Business of the Year and Innovative Business Strategy Award.

Suzanne Grahame, chief executive of funeral plan provider Golden Charter which runs the awards, said: “We’re delighted to recognise Tovey Bros’ commitment to staff training and development, benefitting those involved in the business as well as the local families they serve.

“Aside from all of the day-to-day demands of running a busy funeral director business, it’s fantastic to see this independent firm recognising the value of investing in its people.”

In addition to the Funeral Planner of the Year accolade, the Woodland Trust has dedicated trees on behalf of Tovey Bros, which are to be planted locally at Wentwood in recognition of the company’s achievement.