A company involving all the family is how Orange Property Services (UK) Ltd likes to operate.

Founded 12 years ago by Nicola Leaney, she was joined five years later by director Saira Haider.

It is run mainly by female graduates and one male staff member and the company has been steadily expanding at its base in Windmill Street, Gravesend.

It became essential to expand the floor space for the nine-strong team and that meant going into next door which involved a staff and family effort to knock the wall down. With a portfolio of management sales and lettings, staff are trained in-house and all bar one is a working mum.

Even the children are brought in sometimes to give them an insight into the real world by helping with filing, tea making and a lot of other small jobs. They are also kitted out for the day with smart office wear.

Ms Haider said: “In the past 12 months Orange has evolved. We have grown in space, team and profits, allowing us to give more back to the team and the community. It’s not been easy, but everyone has pulled together.”

The company values its position in the community and sponsors local organisations such as GNG football club, EllenorLions Hospices and take part in school activities to help raise funds.

Orange Property Services is vying to win this year’s Dartford and Gravesham Business Awards, which are supported by the Messenger. All entrants have a profile published in our paper and online. To enter, log onto www.dgbawards.co.uk. Closing date is July 31.