NOT EVERY COMPANY gives you the chance to be a hero, but JN Bentley is happy to oblige. Employees at the engineering and construction services provider nominate colleagues who have gone the extra mile — usually in terms of improving safety or the firm's impact on the environment — and last year's Hero of the Year was presented with a plasma television. The workforce believes that the Skipton-based company is run on strong principles, giving a 77% positive score in our survey. Paul Bentley, who has been managing director for 10 years, takes the time to interview recruits, regardless of the seniority of the role. A top 20 result of 82% shows staff have faith in him, and find him inspiring (73%). People are confident in the leadership skills of senior management, with a 77% score ranking the organisation in the top 35 of the Best Companies listed for this question. Family values remain strong, with employees enjoying quirky perks such as a turkey and wine at Christmas. The green-fingered among them get grubby in the firm's vegetable garden. Employees like to do their bit for charity, too, and last year voted to support the Cave Rescue Organisation in memory of two colleagues who drowned in a caving accident. Staff say JN Bentley gives a lot back to the community (64%). They are also able to take part in voluntary activities during work hours, including mentoring Skipton Girls' High school students. Bringing engineering to life for these young people, the company provides work placements for those who go on to study the subject at university, and this year offered a permanent job to a graduate who benefited from mentoring and summer placements while working towards her degree. Budget concerns aren't the only thing driving the business (71%, a top 20 score). The focus on the wider world encompasses the firm's efforts to reduce its impact on the environment. Staff who are eligible for company cars are offered cash incentives to opt for a low-emission vehicle. On-site resources are re-used wherever possible, with excavated material being allocated as aggregate elsewhere, reducing the need to quarry. Staff say that their employer does its bit to protect the planet (78%). www.jnbentley.co.uk