A LAW firm that has been advising the people of East Lancashire for more than a century has been shortlisted for a top industry award.

Watson Ramsbottom Solicitors is celebrating after reaching the final three for the Hive Growing Business Award.

Stuart Maher, director, said the nomination was down to the 'phenomenal growth' experienced over the last two years.

He said: "We have been nominated due to the phenomenal growth that we have experienced over the past two years.

"The growth is really down to the hard work of all of our staff, we have had a complete overhaul of how we work here and it really is paying dividends."

This year their residential conveyancing department expanded to become one of the largest in the North West and their stalking and domestic abuse department has received national recognition and media attention.

Phillip Thompson, managing partner, said: “I am delighted that the firm have been shortlisted for the Hive Blackburn and Darwen business awards, it is such an honour."

He added: "I am extremely proud of the team we have here at Watson Ramsbottom, they go above and beyond at everything they do and it’s great that these efforts are being recognised.”