THE HUSBAND and wife team behind an electricals company that has grown into a major local success story have described their thrill at winning an award.

Elektec, based on Brussels Road, Darwen, has already been honoured by the Prince's Trust thanks to the work put in by Carl and Charlotte Knowles in growing the company, recruiting new staff, taking on more apprentices and expanding their offices despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

In a ceremony held in Blackpool Tower on September 17 their efforts won further recognition when the couple's firm won construction business of the year at the 2021 BIBA Awards

Mrs Knowles said: "I can't believe it to be honest.

"It's such a huge ceremony and we were up against such large and well established companies but we're all just over the moon!"

More than 1000 business leaders from across the county attend the BIBIAs annual awards ceremony.

The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce run event sees more than 140 businesses compete for 20 awards.

For Elektec, the award is the culmination of a long journey that began when Mr Knowles started his own business at the age of 22 in 2009, thanks to a grant and mentoring from the Prince's Trust.

Mrs Knowles said: "Carl works 70 hours a week sometimes and obviously wishes he could be at home more, but its good to have that recognition and he's over the moon about it too."

She added: "We just felt really luck, it was amazing."

The company now hopes to drive forward its social responsibility campaign, with Mrs Knowles working on hand painted signs for Blackburn food bank and for East Lancashire Hospice's charity shop in Darwen.

Elecktec is also planning to take on more apprentices next year and is offering regular work experience opportunities on Wednesdays for young people.

North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Babs Murphy said: "Elektec have used innovation, enthusiasm and sheer hard work to overcome so many challenges over the past 18 months, and The BIBAs was the perfect way to recognise them."

Next up, the family firm is shortlisted for the HIVE Awards on October 14 and the Red Rose awards on November 25.

Until then Mr and Mrs Knowles are still on the look out for any local commercial or industrial company in need of an an electrical contractor.

To find out more, call 01254 775804 or email info@elektec.co.uk.