A FURNESS firm has earned a coveted national award in recognition of its efforts to help the local community.

Forge Europa is the first electronics company in the country and the first manufacturer in the North West to receive the Community Mark.

The award, run by Business in the Community, is given to employers that are not only committed to their local community, but also demonstrate excellence in business practice and customer service.

Ulverston-based Forge Europa has garnered a reputation as cutting edge designers, developers and manufacturers of LED (light emitting diodes) lamps, displays and lighting assemblies.

The firm secured a government research and development grant worth £500,000 last month to refine LEDs by manipulating materials one-millionth the size of a pinhead.

It is hoped the research will eventually create more jobs at the 12-year-old Ulverston firm which currently employs 25 staff, although how many jobs is not yet known.

The company has supported a number of local community groups, including St Mary's Primary School, Ulverston; the Ulverston Charter Lantern Festival; Ulverston Rangers FC; South Cumbria Music Festival and Ulverston Carnival.

Susan Hinchcliffe of Business in the Community commended Forge Europa, saying its efforts to support the community would inspire others to do the same.