A NEW business support organisation for East Lancashire firms has been awarded a prestigious quality standard just 20 months after it opened.

Business Link East Lancashire, which supports local companies as part of a national chain of 'one-stop shops', has gained an ISO 9001standard.

The achievement recognises the concept of combining business resources is working in the area.

Chief executive of Business Link East Lancashire Phil Burgess said: "I give all due credit to the local organisations with which we work, including local authorities, the Chamber of Commerce, the Enterprise Agencies and Trusts, ELTEC and the Business Environment Association, as well as the many branches of banks, accountancy and solicitors firms.

"Without their co-operation and dedication to developing and improving services that will ultimately strengthen our local businesses, we would not have gained this award so speedily."

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