Work over the past decade to support the development of nuclear skills in Cumbria has been recognised at a reception in the House of Lords.

The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) is celebrating 10 years' partnership with the National Skills Academy for Nuclear (NSAN).

With its headquarters in West Cumbria, the NDA has invested nearly £4 milion in NSAN since it was launched in 2008.

David Vineall, human resources director at the NDA, said: “We are extremely proud of our 10 years of partnership with NSAN.

"It has delivered a portfolio of world-class skills development and training activities for the nuclear industry.

“It is essential the industry develops and sustains a highly skilled workforce to support the delivery of our mission; safely, securely and in an environmentally responsible way.”

The reception in the Terrace Pavilion of the House of Lords, opened by former Barrow MP John Hutton now Lord Hutton of Furness, saw the NDA presented with an NSAN membership certificate of thanks.

NSAN was established by nuclear employers and government to address key skills challenges facing the nuclear industry.

It has played a key role in developing the skills and workforce required for the NDA to fulfil its mission to decommission and clean-up the existing UK nuclear legacy including Sellafield.

Jo Tipa, managing director of NSAN, said: “The NDA, as founder members of NSAN, has been involved in all aspects of our operation since 2007 and has worked collaboratively with us and the sector to support the development and delivery of a number of key skills initiatives.

“NSAN values the relationship with the NDA and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership.”