WEST Suffolk-based Bennett Homes has been named Housebuilder of the Year at the inaugural National Federation of Builders (NFB) Awards.

Bennett, based at Nowton, near Bury St Edmunds, was awarded the title for its innovative strategies for maintaining sales levels and meeting customer needs in a challenging economic climate.

These include a Lend-A-Home scheme which offers rent-free accommodation for purchasers waiting for their new home to be built, equity schemes to help buyers meet the required level of deposit and the installation of energy efficient heating to reduce environmental impact and household bills.

Edward Parker, managing director of Bennett Homes, said: “I am extremely proud to be collecting this Award on behalf of our entire company.

“This success is the result of a number of factors but I hope that it’s mainly down to our company culture of putting customers first and all the hard work we’ve done over our 65-year history.

“This award is for the entire Bennett Homes team who make sure that everything runs smoothly for the customer, from their first visit to us right through to moving into their new home – and beyond.

“Winning this award is very important – it validates all the work we do and to have national industry recognition is a tremendous achievement.”

Julia Evans, chief executive of the NFB, added: “The standard of entries received has been extremely high, reflecting the excitement amongst members for the awards scheme.

“The awards not only reflect the quality of work members carry out but also the dynamic nature of the construction industry and provide a unique opportunity for members to showcase and be recognised for their work.”