A BACUP manufacturing firm has been crowned a national environment champion after scooping first prize at a green award ceremony.

JJOplc, which manufactures kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms won the prestigious Gold Green Apple award in recognition of its environmental campaign, Waste Minimisation and Energy Efficiency.

The company, based in Lee Road, took the award at a ceremony held at the House of Commons.

Stephen Greenhalgh, managing director said: “We are delighted to win such a prestigious award as we’ve worked tirelessly to improve the way we do things.

“We have constantly sought to identify the areas where we can make a difference.

“All the staff have worked extremely hard but I’d like to say a special thank you to our health, safety and environment manager, James Casey who put the package together.”

Among the reasons for JJO winning the award was that all wood is sourced from sustainable forests and that the delivery fleet is maintained and operated as efficiently as possible.

The Green Awards are presented annually in recognition of companies, councils and communities carrying out projects that enhance the environment.

Mr Greenhalgh said: “We will continue with our commitment to the environment.”

JJO make around 700 kitchens a week while a new production line for bathrooms was launched in 2008. It has invested more than £7.5 million in new technology at its factories in recent years.

Roger Wolens, national organiser of the awards, said: “JJO have shown continued interest in environmental issues during the current financial climate, which shows great foresight.”

Last Friday, JJO took the Environment Award at the Lancashire Telegraph Business Awards.