YORKON, the York-based subsidiary of Portakabin, has won a major industry award for the third time running, recognising its pioneering work in off-site construction and its ongoing commitment to design and innovation.

In front of 700 industry professionals at London's Park Lane Hilton hotel, Yorkon was presented with the award for Best Off-site Specialist at the Specialist Contractor Awards, repeating its win of 2003 and 2004.

Keith Blanshard, pictured, director of Yorkon, was also recognised for his contribution to the construction industry with the award for Personality of the Year.

Yorkon's approach to construction involves the manufacture of steel-framed modules at its factory in Huntington, while the foundation works are completed on site.

The modules are delivered to site by road where they are craned into position in a few days ready for fitting out.

According to the judges, "Moho, Urban Splash's Manchester development was not Yorkon's only impressive first of 2005. It also completed construction of the first independent sector treatment centre to be built off-site, and its success is reflected in the fact that Yorkon has been contracted to build a second centre in Portsmouth.

"The company's repeat customers include blue-chip clients such as Tesco, and it has exemplary training and sustainability records."

On Mr Blanshard's award for Personality Of The Year, the judges said: "Anyone who has met or talked with Keith Blanshard, is likely to have detected his passion for off-site construction. His approach has proved superbly effective in developing, marketing and spearheading the prefabrication agenda and the Yorkon brand.

"Perhaps his single biggest achievement has been his work as an apostle of off-site manufacturing. "He has brought and sold the idea to many professional and public bodies. We are pleased that, with this award, his contribution to the whole of British construction has been recognised."

An "absolutely delighted" Mr Blanshard said: "This award, and the award for Personality Of The Year, are fantastic accolades for Yorkon and are major achievements for the whole team."

Yorkon is part of the Shepherd Building Group - one of Europe's largest privately owned businesses in the construction sector - and a subsidiary of Portakabin.

Established in 1980, Yorkon is now the UK's leading off-site specialist and has pioneered innovative building solutions in sectors as diverse as supermarkets, offices, hospitals, restaurants and schools.

Updated: 10:35 Wednesday, November 23, 2005