A HOT stamping foil business has been presented with a prestigious royal award.

Foilco, based in Lowton, was handed the Queen's Award for Enterprise for International Trade 2019 recently.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Warren Smith joined staff at the Enterprise Way company for a day of staff celebrations after the company was given the accolade.

Managing director Paul Hornby gave Mr Smith a factory tour of the firm's production facility during his visit.

When the formal handing over of the award took place, the Lord-Lieutenant explained the significance of its value and praised staff for their hard work.

He was then given the opportunity to try his hand at foil blocking. The Foilco team had also prepared a surprise as one of the machines hid a bespoke hot stamping die designed especially for him.

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After Mr Smith's departure, family and friends were invited to the site to celebrate the achievement.

Homemade pizzas, an array of inflatables for children and a range of refreshments were supplied at the party.