CHIEF executive Alwin Thompson knows exactly who to thank for helping Inter Link Foods plc win the prestigious accolade of Company of the Year - his workforce.

He said: "I am a bit speechless. It is great to win something and great to do it in your own home town.

"We have won this for the people of Blackburn.

"Many bosses might be tempted to put this award in their office but I am going to put it in the factory where everyone can get the halo effect and feel very proud of East Lancashire. This is for the people.

"The heart of the business is Blackburn.

"Blackburn is where it began and Blackburn is where it continues to be."

The company only found out it had been shortlisted for the award just days before the prize-giving ceremony.

Alwin said: "When there are just three companies in the running you tend to think, 'Great, we want to win,' but you play down your own expectations so you are not disappointed if you don't win.

"But then when you do win, you are somewhat unprepared for it.

"I am just over the moon that we won.

"To win an award in any area of the country would have been great but to win it Blackburn makes it more special.

"I will be in the factory at the first opportunity to walk round and congratulate all the staff."

In less than 10 years, Inter Link Foods plc has increased its annual turnover from around £1million to over £85million and has grown to become one of Britain's top three cake makers.

From its headquarters in Shadsworth, the group now employs more than 9,500 people working out of a network of bakeries throughout the UK.

They supply most of Britain's leading supermarket chains, providing groups like Asda, Tesco, Safeway, Somerfield and Aldi with own-label products.