Working together to follow all of the rules

Fire and trading standards officers, have scooped the award for Team Of The Year at the government’s Primary Authority Awards for their work helping businesseses abide by regulatory requirements.

They run a scheme where businesses which trade in two or more areas can form a legal partnership with one local authority.

And businesses in Hertfordshire of all shapes and sizes, from Tesco down to small and medium enterprises, are benefiting from the county council’s expert advice as a result.

Richard Thake, cabinet member for community safety at County Hall, said: “We’re in the unique position of having the fire service and trading standards in the same department, and that’s a real advantage for both us and for the businesses we support.

“We’re committed to supporting Hertfordshire-based businesses and helping them maintain a high level of protection for the public.”

The judges from the government’s Department for Business, Innovation and Skills said: “This is an excellent entry, including endorsements from businesses and local authorities.

“The work Hertfordshire carries out with businesses and local authorities is to be commended.”