Three innovative entrepreneurs have secured a slice of a £30,000 prize pot in a Dragon's Den inspired competition.

The Lancashire Innovation Challenge was developed by Innovate Lancashire, part of the Business Growth Team at Lancashire County Council with support from Shout Network and Create Education Project.

Held at Shout Network's offices at the Docks in Preston, the final saw six finalists present their ideas to a fiery panel of judges to compete for investment and mentoring support.

The event was hosted by Aaron Willis, from Chorley, who featured in the 2022 season of The Apprentice.

First prize went to Gemma Connolly from Scoff Paper based in Chorley, which sells personalised, edible cards for dogs.

Gemma impressed the panel with how far she has come already, getting her product into large retail chains such as Clintons Cards and B&M, with eyes now on the online market.

Second place went to Susanna Bocccaccio from Brilliant Trees Media in Blackpool, who has come up with a way to allow young children to express emotions and look after their wellbeing.

Conor Walsh from Clitheroe took third place, with a novel invention that supports electricians and streamlines part of their working day, while reducing waste, something he is especially passionate about.

Gemma won £15,000; Susanna won £10,000 and Conor won £5,000. All the contestants will also get six hours of mentoring support and got to take home a trophy each.

County Councillor Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council, has congratulated this year's entrants.

He said: "A huge congratulations to all of the entrants who took part in this year's Lancashire Innovation Challenge, especially to our winners.

"Supporting our businesses to realise their ideas, to grow and flourish, is a key priority for the county council.

"Lancashire is brimming with innovation, as was evident by the impressive ideas and products brought before the judges this year."