MORE manufacturing jobs could come to Gillingham after one of Medway's biggest employers won international acclaim for its quality.

New T-shirts for 1,400 staff and a silver cedar tree are the immediate legacy of the award to Delphi Diesel Systems in Courteney Road.

But plant manager Doug Ewing said that longer-term the Delphi Global Quality Award (silver level) could bring new jobs because it underlined the unique skills of a committed workforce.

"We believe there could be more jobs," he said. "If we get it right, there are more opportunities. They have a skill that is unique -- a better skill than you get in Third World countries."

Medway was a good area for the skills the company needed, he added. "They will keep bringing us work all the time we can demonstrate our commitment to quality."

The Gillingham plant is one of Delphi's top 57 plants out of nearly 200 worldwide. Delphi, a multinational company, bought the Courteney Road complex, previously known as Lucas Diesel Systems/Lucas Varity and CAV, in 2000. At one time, it had four factories in Medway and employed 3,000 people.

Despite recent hard times for manufacturing in Britain, Mr Ewing said the Gillingham plant, one of three Delphi outlets in the UK, was doing well.

Demand is strong for its rotary diesel pumps used in cars, agricultural and marine equipment. It has also developed a new range of petrol products. Customers include Nissan, Ford, Renault and Peugeot.

"We are growing again after years of downsizing," said Mr Ewing. "But if you're a good quality producer, you stand more chance of surviving."

Delphi chose the silver cedar tree to commemorate the silver award. Dozens of employees, all wearing their new navy blue T-shirts, joined a planting ceremony close to the main factory gate.

"The tree is symbolic," said Mr Ewing. "Having an evergreen tree shows year-round commitment. It's going to grow big and strong."