COUNCIL bosses have been celebrating after hearing that two of their services have been named as shining examples to others.

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council was one of only two councils in the North West to be awarded Beacon status for two of its services at once.

It won the prestigious status for its library services as a community resource and support for local businesses through its fostering business growth scheme and will receive two shares of £1.7 million of funding for the achievement -- one for each award.

The awards are given to councils noted by the Government to have achieved excellence in service and result in the authority being used as an example to other councils who may not be doing so well.

It will now go on to share its good ideas and best practice with other councils, working with the Improvement and Development Agency and starting with a series of open days and showcase events.

The council has already won Beacon status for its educational services.

Just some of the improvements which have helped the services win national recognition include longer opening hours for libraries, including Sunday opening, access to the internet for users and services in the community.

Support for local businesses has included projects from provision of managed workspace schemes, land and property development and training schemes and use of technology and e-commerce support.

Coun Bill Taylor, leader of the council, received the Beacon awards from Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford, at a ceremony in London.

Coun Taylor said: "I am delighted. Following so closely after Council of the Year success this is further good news for the council, partners and, most importantly, residents of the borough. Councillors Kate Hollern, Ashley Whalley and staff delivering our library and business support services should be proud of this triumph.

"Excellent services that gain national awards don't happen overnight; they represent years of hard work. These beacon awards are well deserved."

Coun Ashley Whalley, executive member for regeneration, said: "Economic prosperity is the key to social inclusion and the council has taken its economic development and support activities very seriously. Having worked with small, medium and large companies alike we have built a sound rapport with the private sector and a first class reputation for support and advice.

"The 6,000 jobs created or preserved over the last five years in the local economy, often in the face of serious challenges, is evidence of the commitment and energy of all concerned and has helped put Blackburn at the forefront of investment in the North-West. This is now THE place to invest and prosper and Blackburn with Darwen's workers are the best in the UK."

The existing Beacon status for education runs out next year. When it was awarded, it was one of just four to receive the honour.