DARWEN-BASED textile manufacturers Herbert Parkinson has reached the final four of the Hive Business Awards 2017 in the investing in skills category.

The firm, founded in 1935, produces a range of soft furnishing products from its Harvest Mill base in Monton Road.

Russell Brown, operations manager, said the nomination was a clear indication of the company's commitment to staff development.

He said: "We are passionate about helping all of our partners to develop.

"We have a dedicated learning centre on site which all staff members are encouraged to use.

"Some are given the opportunity to improve their digital skills while others can improve their English and maths.

"We want everyone to have the opportunity to reach their full potential here, it is really important to us."

He added: "Someone may join as a machinist but we want everyone to develop a multitude of skills.

"Many of our partners stay on for more than 10 years, so it is for everyone's benefit that we have a well trained team."

Herbert Parkinson established the business at Orchard Mill in Darwen to weave jacquard cloth.

On his death, the business was passed to his daughter who sold it to John Lewis in 1953.

The site now produces cushion pads and a range of filled products such as beanbags and John Lewis’s own brand duvets and pillows.