Black Horse was one of nine companies in Wales to receive the Big Tick accreditation for putting responsible business practice at the head of their operations. Black Horse succeeded in the Merrill Lynch Raising Achievement in Young People category through their support of the Future Blues rugby programme.

Future Blues is the community rugby development programme of the Cardiff Blues region and was launched in 2005. The scheme is a partnership between principal partner Black Horse, Cardiff Blues, the WRU and the unitary authorities within the region. To date, more than 36,000 children have been coached by the Future Blues team, with some succeeding at regional and international level.

Richard Hodges, Community & Coach Development Manager, Future Blues said: "The role of Black Horse is integral to supporting Future Blues.

"Without its long standing and trusted support, it would not be possible to deliver the level of rugby development in the most densely populated region of Wales, as funding isn't available for the qualified staff that organise, teach and facilitate each day."

Black Horse employees in Wales have been involved in the programme through the divisional Time2Care scheme supporting children's Tag Rugby festivals at Cardiff Arms Park, coaching camps and more recently a joint venture between Future Blues, Black Horse and Business in the Community called Fit4Fun which was aimed at tackling childhood obesity.

The Future Blues Rugby Camps have proved to be hugely popular with youngsters throughout the region. More camps are being held over the summer in Merthyr and Cardiff and Cardiff Blues squad members will be there to help out with the coaching.

Now in their tenth year, the Awards for Excellence encourage companies to measure, continually improve and communicate the benefits they bring to society through community programmes and business practices.

Ian O'Hare, head of corporate communications comments, "This is a prestigious award, independently judged and therefore a real pat on the back for our business. All Black Horse businesses will be able to use the Big Tick logo on their letters and marketing material, demonstrating that we are a business that makes a positive impact in the communities in which we are based".