A COUNCIL leader has congratulated a Blackburn confectionery firm on winning a Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

Simply Doughnuts, based on the town's Furthergate Industrial Estate, was given its Royal seal of approval for making sweet treats which stay fresh on the shop shelf for up to a month

The firm was recognised for its unique manufacturing processes which enable its foods to stay fresh for much longer than competing products, extending shelf-lives from the usual two days to between 27 and 30 days.

Cllr Mohammed Khan, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "Well done to Simply Doughnuts – this is a fantastic achievement.

"The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is one of the most prestigious business accolades in the country so we are extremely proud to have a recipient come from Blackburn with Darwen.

"We have some fantastic innovative businesses based in the borough and will continue to support them and back their achievements."

Simply Doughnuts managing director Shiraz Master said: “Getting here has taken literally years of effort."