Three Cumbrian businesses have won awards recognising hardworking small businesses.

The Federation of Small Businesses’ Celebrating Small Business Awards North West Area finals took place last week, with Kendal baby milk powder producer Kendal Nutricare Limited picking up the prize for International Business of the Year.

The business and product Innovation Award went to Hawkshead Relish, while Lauren Hart, of Ulverston florists Bluebell and Ivy was named

Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

They will now go through to the FSB’s UK National Finals to be held in London this May, where they will go head-to-head with other regional finalists from across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Chris Manka, FSB North West regional chairman, said: “We congratulate all today’s finalists on their excellent year in business in a competitive range of categories. Our winners now go on to the finals in London where we hope to see their successes recognised on the national stage. We are sure they will do us proud.”