Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation

Nigel Sherlock, Lord-  Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Pearson Engineering chairman, John Reece and managing  director, John Crompton

On 18th September 2012, Nigel Sherlock,  Lord- Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear was welcomed to Pearson Engineering by  chairman, John Reece and managing director, John Crompton, to present the  company with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation.

Pearson Engineering received the award for  designing a range of counter-mine and counter-improvised explosive device (IED)  equipment including SPARK- the Self Protection Adaptive Roller Kit.

SPARK, a modular mine roller system designed to be  mounted on tactical wheeled and tracked platforms, is designed to trigger IEDs  in front of the host vehicle protecting it and its occupants. The innovative  piece of kit has been responsible for saving many lives in the recent conflicts  in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Speaking about the honour of receiving the  prestigious award, John Reece said:

“I am  delighted that the innovative work carried out at Pearson Engineering has been  recognised in this way. The culture the  company has developed over many years is one of continually looking to provide  new and innovative engineering solutions. Our products have been designed to perform in some of the toughest  environments and it doesn’t get tougher and more important than providing mine  clearance equipment that saves lives.

“Looking ahead, we are now investing in new mine  clearance systems as well as a range of mobile bridge laying equipment which is  significantly improved compared to what is currently available in the market  place.”