Star launch...

Hollyoaks TV star Darren Jeffries will help to launch this year's search for top achievers in Cumbria's workplace. The Excellence in Cumbria Awards will be launched by Darren, who plays OB in the Channel 4 soap. His character was initially an aimless jack-the-lad when he entered the popular series seven years ago, but his life has been transformed by going to college. OB' is seen by the competition organisers, Learning and Skills Council Cumbria, as a perfect role model for the awards, which recognise excellence in learning, skills and achievement. Outgoing LSC chairman Rob Cairns said the awards also developed links between businesses and learning providers in the county and provided networking opportunities.

The awards launch is due to he held at Rheged, Penrith, on October 19.

Pet mad...

PET care business Barking Mad will be attending the two-day National Franchise Exhibition, which starts today at the NEC in Birmingham. The Kirkby Lonsdale business will be rubbing shoulders with many high street names, including Cash Converters, Costa Coffee and Prontaprint. David Tuck, franchise sales manager at Venture Marketing Group, which organises the National Franchise Exhibition, commented: "This is a fantastic opportunity for Barking Mad. They have the chance of telling their success story to budding entrepreneurs and giving them the opportunity of joining a ready-made successful venture."

Prize firms...

TOP trainer Jenny Pitman will be in Cumbria today (Friday) to present prizes to the county's leading businesses. She is the chief guest at The Pride of Cumbria Business Awards, hosted by Business Link for Cumbria, which take place at Carlisle Racecourse. A number of prizes are up for grabs, including exporter, start-up and company of the year. The event also includes an afternoon of racing.

Don't miss next week's Business Gazette to find out who are the best businesses in Cumbria.