A TOP Blackpool businessman has been named as the first person to be awarded the prestigious George Bancroft Memorial Salver.

The accolade -- in memory of the former Blackpool Council leader who died earlier this year -- has been awarded to Michael Hyman in recognition of an outstanding contribution in helping to improve the town centre over the past 12 months.

Mr Hyman, managing director of jewellers Leonard Dews, was selected for the award by the Town Centre Forum. He has long campaigned on the importance of Blackpool as a retail centre -- and last month made his strongest demonstration of faith by launching a new £350,000 flagship store for Leonard Dews on the corner of Church Street and Market Street.

Town centre manager Nigel Hanson said: "George Bancroft was a very popular and respected council leader, with a strong commitment to Blackpool.

"This annual award for individuals, businesses or organisations that have demonstrated an unswerving commitment to improving the town centre over the previous 12 months is a fitting tribute to his memory and his contribution to the town.

"Michael Hyman has demonstrated his belief in the importance of high quality retailing in Blackpool and in the future of the town centre. The launch of Leonard Dews new showpiece store was his most emphatic demonstration of this commitment to date.

"For these reasons, it was felt that Michael should be the recipient of the first George Bancroft Memorial Salver and I would like to join the other members of the Town Centre Forum in offering our most sincere congratulations to Michael and our thanks for his continued support for Blackpool town centre."

Mr Hyman was presented with the surprise award at a special dinner for the Town Centre Forum.

"I was completely taken aback to receive the award," said Mr Hyman. "It is a great honour and I am very touched by it. Ever since my childhood I have been a firm believer in the future of Blackpool as both a resort and a retail centre.

"At Leonard Dews we have tried to show our support for the town over the years and I feel proud to have been honoured with this award."