BURNLEY MP Gordon Birtwistle is calling on local manufacturing firms to enter a competition to win £20,000 worth of consultancy.

Applications for the Manufacturing Excellence 2012 awards must be in by June 1.

Mr Birtwistle said: “I’m calling for businesses to apply and take advantage of the programme. Entry is free and there is up to £20,000 free consultancy advice up for grabs as well as the chance to win at the prestigious Manufacturing Excellence Awards in November.

“Manufacturing is the economic backbone to the UK and by entering companies can ensure Burnley is at the heart of the country’s manufacturing resurgence.”