A HYNDBURN company which claims to have been instrumental in developing a special prayer mat used in mosques all over the world is celebrating 35 years in business.

Glen Mill, based in Whalley Road, Accrington, has traded in the flooring and carpets industry since 1967 but the group has many more strings to its bow.

The company operates Carpet Bank, a service where they supply carpets to smaller carpet retailers who cannot have accounts with the prestigious carpet manufacturers.

And in 1998 the Glen Mill Group diversified into the property development market and is now involved in a number of developments including: Shadsworth Business Park, Avroe Court in Blackpool and a development near Blackpool airport - Sir Frank Whittle Way.

The latest development, Mercury Rise, is closer to home on land bought at Altham Business Park. This £3million project includes plans for three prestigious new blocks with 10 offices next to a stream and recreation area for relaxed breaks.

Peter Shearon, Glen Mill managing director who is also on the board of governors for Peel Park County Primary School in the town, said: "The local area will benefit from an extremely high quality professional courtyard of office suites which will house a number of progressive companies and practices.

"The spacious environment provided will facilitate a less stressful working atmosphere where staff can enjoy a more open air working experience in which creative thought can blossom.

"The success of Glen Mill is very satisfying, but I am always looking out for the next big challenge."