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 need to be submitted 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.”