A FATHER-son motor firm that employs almost 100 people in Blackburn is up for a Hive Award.

Hippo Motor Group, founded in 2006 by Tom and Richard Preston, has been shortlisted for the Family Business Award.

The firm opened a £2million showroom in the town in 2013 and has plans to extend the business over the next 18months - potentially recruiting a further 40 people.

Antony Anderson, marketing manager, said that the firm were delighted with the award.

He said: "This couldn't have come at a better time, we are celebrating our tenth year in business and this nomination really recognises the work that we do."

The Hippo Motor Group has a prestige showroom at Trident Park which features £80,000 Land Rovers and £75,000 Porches, at Sandringham Court.

Other major brands include Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Bentley, Aston Martin, BMW and Audi.

The firm has raised thousands of pounds for various charities through their quarterly commitment where they donated an agreed sum for each car they lease or sell to one of their selected charities.

The group raised more than £2,400 - split between Children in Need, Cancer Help Preston, Milly’s Smiles and Spacious Place. Staff also took part in Jeans for Genes and MacMillan coffee mornings.