STAFF at a footwear firm have kicked off the new year with a double celebration.

E Sutton, which employs 280 at its Bacup site, is just completed its 100th year in business.

The milestone coincides with the firm, which manufactures footwear including fashion shoes, boots and sandals, receiving the Investor in People award for staff training and development.

The firm is the first footwear manufacturer in East Lancashire and the North West to achieve the award and only the third nationally.

"Our company is committed to continuous improvement in all aspects of its business and this cannot be achieved without harnessing the skills and enthusiasm of our employees," said Alan Connearn, personnel manager.

"Investors in People enabled us to do this and to reap tangible business benefits."

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