Johnson, his wife Sue, and daughters Nicola and Louise, will enjoy a two-week holiday in the States next month (March). Their first week will be spent at a five-star villa in Florida and their second week at a four-star hotel in Clearwater.

Johnson, from Wath-upon-Dearne in Rotherham, started at Lifting Solutions (formally Chain and Rope Services) on November 27 1981, and steadily worked his way up to foreman. He is now second in command of the tackle division.

Jonathan Moorhouse, Lifting Solutions managing director, said: “Barrie is a great example of a trustworthy, hard working individual who has given 25 years of his working life to the company. We appreciate his efforts immensely and we were delighted to be able to show him how much his service means to us.”

He added: “We hope they enjoy the trip to Florida and forget about Lifting Solutions – well, just for two weeks!”

Johnson said: “This surprise came completely out of the blue and I was lost for words.”