A Bradford company has been honoured by royalty after recording an outstanding export performance.

The Stephenson Group, which has manufacturing sites in Bradford and Leeds, was given the Queen's Award for Enterprise 2000 at an official presentation by the Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, John Lyles CBE JP.

It won the award for its international trading performance having seen export sales grow by 66 per cent in three years.

The group manufactures soap bases for the personal care sector as well as process chemicals for paper recycling, rubber manufacturing, printing and the food industry. Last year 14 new jobs were created. Group managing director Richard Bentley said: "Whilst we've been exporting for over 100 years, the last few years have seen major expansion in both new product development and international sales.

"Despite the strength of the pound, the quality and innovation shown in our range of speciality chemicals ensures their continuing demand in worldwide markets.

"This award recognises the contribution that everyone in the company has made to achieve outstanding results."

The Stephenson Group exports to more than 50 countries. A new Leeds warehouse is due to open in March.