AN AWARD-winning Basingstoke firm is urging local companies to put themselves forward for a national business accolade, after coming up trumps themselves last year.

Prosthetic manufacturer Chas A Blatchford & Sons, was named the overall ‘Winner of Winners’ in EEF/Aldermore’s annual Future Manufacturing Awards, after beating off stiff competition from companies across the UK.

Now, with the awards kicking-off again for the sixth year, Chas A Blatchford & Sons is urging other outstanding local manufacturers and supply chain businesses to step forward.

Chief executive Stephen Blatchford, based at the firm’s head office in Bond Close at Kingsland Business Park, Basingstoke, said: “We entered because we knew these were the true manufacturing awards, awarded by an organisation that knows what it’s talking about. We were delighted with our success.

“Winning has been a tremendous boost to all of the company and the teams concerned.”

Jim Davison, South East region director at EEF, in Hook, said: “Local firms have a great story to tell, and there’s every reason to expect another champion to come from this area.

“Our reigning champion, Chas A Blatchford & Sons, has had a great year and the icing on the cake would be to see them pass the crown on to another local business.”

There are seven different categories to enter – success in strategic growth, smart products, health and safety, skills and training, operational excellence, climate and environment, and exporting. There are also separate awards for the best manufacturing apprentices.

Entries should be made before October 3, at eef.org.uk/awards.