AN Astley Bridge firm is celebrating after being awarded two internationally recognised quality standards.

Franking Sense, which is based in the former Astley Bridge Library in Moss Bank Way, has earned the ISO 9001 and the ISO 14001.

The ISO 9001 award shows that firms have implemented quality management systems, while the ISO 14001 recognises companies which have an effective environmental management system.

Daniel Gilbert, the firm's operations director, said: "This is a big thing for us, because it allows us to promote ourselves to customers and show that our processes are up to standard. Historically we have sold to small and medium sizes enterprises, but the majority of large corporate clients expect companies to have this level of compliance, so it is important to allow us to find new customers."

The firm was established in 1992 by Mr Gilbert's father, John, with his other son Julian, and Daniel joined the company later after working as a regional sales manager for DIY giant B&Q.

It is an independent supplier of mail room equipment including franking machines, photocopiers and printers, and its franking machines have been approved by the Royal Mail.

The firm also been a long term partner of Bolton Wanderers for the past decade, currently sponsoring the club's training kit.

The company had offices next door to Astley Bridge library, and decided to expand the building instead of moving elsewhere as part of their expansion plans.