AN EXMOUTH businessman has unlocked the door to success after landing a national award.

Tom Gordon, who has run Eric’s Knob and Lock Shop, in Church Street, since 1984, has been named Locksmith of The Year by a leading industry magazine.

Mr Gordon, who was the first master locksmith in East Devon, was pleased to have won particularly because the award was voted for by readers of the publication.

He feels the success, despite the market’s recent domination by online sales and superstores, is due to his constant learning.

Even after nearly 30 years in the business, Mr Gordon says there is always something more to discover which he then, willingly, passes on to other bona fide members of the trade.

“I was extreamly proud to have won the award,” he said.

Mr Gordon says he has noticed many new locksmiths, who often have only around five days training, show little interest in learning what the customer expects them to know and be able to do.

He is often staggered by the costs and standard of work from certain companies, typically those with the largest adverts in Yellow Pages, and cannot understand why so many people do not choose from recommendation.

The award-winner vows to continue to do things the old fashioned way, with skill and integrity.