A BOLTON-based industrial cutting firm could land a national award and a cash boost — after its period of huge growth in the past two years was recognised.

Ten years-ago, Chris Lever set-up Bindatex, a one-man operation supplying low-value bookbinding materials.

A decade later, and after hiring six staff members, the firm, which is based in the Evans Business Centre in Manchester Road, has been awarded the title of “Best Growth Story” in the North West.

The award is part of the Great Faces of British Business competition — run by the Business is Great campaign in association with BT Business — and aims to find the most innovative and exciting businesses in the UK.

After landing the regional award, Bindatex is now in the running to win the national competition and a top prize of £30,000 worth of government support.

Chris, aged 44, from Sharples said the growth of Bindatex came as a result of a significant change of course for his firm.

He said: “I used to work for a company which manufactures book-binding materials and 10 years ago I decided to go it alone as I realised I could provide the same services myself.

“A couple of years ago I decided to change direction —I realised I could use the equipment I had to cut materials to be used in advanced manufacturing industries.”

He said the whole direction of the firm has changed since then, adding: “We have gone from low value book-binding work to high-value work, with a current order to supply a technical cutting service for use in the world’s largest experimental nuclear fusion reactor currently being built in the South of France.”

The subsequent success of that move has allowed Chris to take-on six members of staff — including four people who were previously unemployed.

He said: “They have come into the firm and done really well and we now have plans to increase that workforce to 12 people.”

He said everyone at the company is “thrilled” to be a regional winner of the Great Faces of British Business competition and is hoping people will back them for the national prize.

He added: “There’s a wealth of innovative small and medium-sized businesses out there and it’s great to be recognised as one of them by the competition.

“We would love to win the national award and so please show your support by voting for us.”

The national competition consists of the regional winners from the three categories: best exporter, most innovative business, and best growth story. The grand prix winner, selected by a national judging panel, will also be announced in March. The prize includes a bespoke creative advertising campaign worth £30,000, along with an iPad Air and unlimited BT Wi-Fi for 12 months, courtesy of BT Business.

In addition, the winner will also receive a package of export support from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), which works with UK businesses to help them succeed in international markets and supports the Business is GREAT Britain campaign, with the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS).

To vote for Bindatex, visit greatbusiness.gov.uk/competition