A BUSINESSMAN who made a sleepy Pendle village the hub of an international fabric design and distribution company has been honoured for his contribution to his profession.

Tony Attard, whose Fence-based firm Panaz Ltd has spearheaded the development and manufacture of flame-retardant fabrics for hotels, leisure, hospitals and healthcare industries throughout the world, has been presented with an Outstanding Alumnus award by Manchester's UMIST.

The award is given to former students who achieve major distinction in their field.

Tony, managing and design director of Panaz, which he set up 15 years ago, went into business on his own account after taking BSc Hons degree at UMIST, followed by posts with Courtaulds and Tootal.

The Fence mill is now at the centre of a global distribution network stretching across nearly 40 countries and including offices in Germany and the USA.

Many of the world's most prestigious hotels appear on the company's client list, including Holiday Inn, Hilton, Sheraton, Marriott and the George V in Paris.

Panaz fabrics are also much in evidence in maritime projects completed for Cunard, Stenna, and Sea Link and in palaces in the Middle East.

Tony, who has won major awards for export achievement, is married with three children.