LOCAL businesses will be honoured tonight at a special ceremony.

Blackburn with Darwen Council will celebrate the achievements of local firms, and the community, at the Employment Charter Awards, at King George's Hall.

The event is aimed at raising awareness of the Disability Discrimination Act and encouraging companies to sign up to the borough's Employment Charter which commits firms to employ local people.

So far, 151 local businesses have signed up to the charter, and 68 more will be announced and presented with certificates tonight.

Five employers will also be acknowledged for outstanding achievements in understanding the Disability Discrimination Act.

Coun Andy Kay, the council's executive member for regeneration, said: "We want to celebrate and recognise the achievements of companies in the borough."