AN Earby stove business bounced back from being flooded to be recognised in the annual East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce International Trade Awards.

Ashburn Stoves, based in Victoria Mill, Boot Street, lost three months trading at the start of 2016 following the Boxing Day floods.

But the business has forged ahead, doubling the size of its supply chain to cater for a range of customers including renewable energy installers, architects and developers.

And to end the year on a high note, in December it was highly commended in the outstanding importer category at the chamber's 11th annual gala luncheon held at the Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa in Accrington.

Ashburn Stoves was co-founded by a local, fully hands on heating engineering company with 30 year experience and a consultant specialising in housing research and development.

It provides biomass, solar thermal and heat pump parts and carries out training and support.

A spokesman for the awards, said: "East Lancashire has lots of brilliant businesses that are thriving in challenging overseas markets, and the International Trade Club Awards are a celebration of their achievements.

“It really is fantastic to see such a diverse range of companies succeeding in so many countries across the globe, and long may that continue.”