AN East Lancashire entrepreneur is celebrating being shortlisted in a national market traders contest.

Jeff Thomson, a former journalist and public relations consultant, started his new venture Curried away in Burnley indoor market last June.

But, early this year he took the decision to leave the town and set up a stall on Todmorden market on Saturdays.

He also can also be found at Chorley farmers’ market and Samlesbury Hall food fair, both monthly.

The move has earned him recognition nationally as he has been named as one of the finalists in the Make Your Mark in the Markets competition run by Enterprise UK and supported by the National Market Traders Federation.

The placing has won him free market rents and could mean he scoops a winning £1,000 cash prize.

Curried away specialises in traditional Punjabi-style curries and snacks including samosas and pakora, all halal and made locally.