TWO firms from East Lancashire are among the six North West finalists in a competition to find the best small business in Britain.

Autotune (Rishton) Ltd, of Riverside Industrial Estate, Rishton, and Petra Hellas, of Toll Bar Business Park, Stacksteads, are through to the next stage in the finals of this year's Parcelforce Worldwide Small Business Awards.

Autotune, which markets replica cars, employs four people. Petra Hellas employs 26 people and manufactures marble and timber products, primarily fireplaces and tables.

The six firms are fighting for £6,000 worth of prizes and the chance to represent the North West in the finals in London in January.

The national winner will receive £24,000.

The awards are open to businesses that employ less than 30 people.

Carolyn Holland, head of small business and consumer operations at Parcelforce Worldwide, said: "The awards are designed to encourage and reward good practice. We congratulate all entrants that have made it through to the regional final."