A TEXTILE manufacturers founded by BBC Sewing Bee star Patrick Grant has been nominated for an award after investing in the regions mills.

Founded late last year Community Clothing has started production at two Blackburn mills and has opened a store in the town centre.

The mills in Blackburn produce the majority of the firm's rain wear and denim which is exported to a number of outlets across the country.

Lucy Clayton, chief executive, said that the firm was founded with a simple mission - 'to make excellent quality affordable clothes and to create jobs for skilled textile workers'.

The UK clothing industry faces many challenges from intense competition from cheap labour markets and the seasonality of demand.

For several months of every year even the very best factories are operating at well below full capacity. Community Clothing was founded in September to address this exact issue.

Ms Clayton said although the firm had seven factories and six suppliers from London to Scotland, East Lancashire was at the 'heart' of their operation.

She said: "Patrick wants to see towns like Blackburn and their communities succeed. Our facilities and shop in Blackburn is really at the heart of the operation."

She added: "We are delighted that our endeavours in the region have been recognised with this award nomination."