A BLACKPOOL firm put challengers in the shade this week and won a unique commission to build the huge centrepiece chandelier for the auditorium of the new Chelsom Ltd, manufacturers of high quality and bespoke lighting, outshone competition from throughout the world to take on the high-powered project.

Export manager Des Van Den Berg explained: "We were up against some pretty heavy competition, so to be awarded the contract was a real thrill."

Chelsom has created light fittings for luxury hotels in such exotic locations as Brazil, Peru and Dubai, but Des said: "It's certainly one of the most ambitious projects we've embarked upon, but it will be breathtaking when it's finished and will help to further our reputation around the world."

The sheer dimensions of the chandelier are incredible, at four metres high with a diameter of three and a half metres and weighing 1200 kilos, the chandelier will be made up of a gold plated frame, 30 metal "bouquets" of flowers and thousands of glittering crystals, illuminated from within by 130 globes.

The talented team, which has just returned from Budapest, put their success down to the unique design and attention to detail, but added that their involvement with Business Links, the export advisory service of Trade Partners UK, was integral to growth in their export market. The project will take at least three months to complete.

SPARKLING: How the chandelier will look