A FATHER and son duo are celebrating after scooping prizes at a prestigious business awards.

John Lancaster, from Clitheroe, who has dedicated his life to helping others, won Lancastrian of the Year at the BIBA awards.

“It is really special thing, I’m very humbled to receive this,” said Mr Lancaster. And it proved a double celebration for the Grand Theatre and the Lancaster family as the town’s venue — run by his son Steven — walked off with the Creative Business of the year prize.

“Steven is the executive director of the Grand and it is the first time, I think, a father and a son have both won awards at this event on the same evening, which is lovely,” added Mr Lancaster.

“Also, I understand, a charity had never won the Creative Business prize before, which makes it extra special for everybody.

“The Grand is involved with the whole community, from schools projects to bands from all over the world playing there, and I’m extremely proud of what we have achieved together.”

Previous winners of the lifetime award include Colin Mustoe, chairman of Senator International, in Altham, and Edwin Booth, chairman of the Lancashire supermarket chain.

The lifetime achievement prize is awarded to people who have contributed significantly to the economic vibrancy of Lancashire through their tireless dedication and commitment, both inside their own business and the wider community.

Mr Lancaster launched the Clitheroe company Ultraframe in 1983 with a workforce of two, and masterminded its growth into the world’s largest supplier of conservatory roofing, employing more than 500 in the town.

The Lancaster charitable Foundation has already donated millions to a wide range of good causes across the world, including the Solomon Project, feeding thousands of poor children in Africa, as well as building the Grand Theatre.

TV presenter Eamonn Holmes and former X-Factor star Matt Cardle were the surprise stars at the Blackpool Tower event.

More than 900 members of Lancashire’s business community packed into the ballroom for the North and Western Chamber of Commerce annual get together.