A BUSINESS that began in a garden shed is in the running for a national award. Jali Ltd, based at Barham, near Canterbury, has been short-listed for the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (ImechE) Manufacturing Excellence 2002 awards.

The competition, recognised as the leading industry awards scheme, assesses companies on their innovative work practices, competitive business nature and, ultimately, excellence in their field of manufacturing.

Jali Ltd, started in 1989 by Nicholas Showan with one machine in his shed, produces decorative architectural woodwork for projects from DIY to film sets. Previous projects include friezes for Hogwarts Library and Gringotts Bank in the Harry Potter film, Laura Ashley's Christmas Windows and fretwork in the Robbie Williams and Nicole Kidman video Somethin' Stupid.

Interior designer Laurence Llewelyn Bowen is a big fan of the company's work and has used it on his various TV shows. Nicholas Showan, managing director of Jali, said he was delighted the company had been short-listed for the award.

The company will have to wait until June 18 to see if it makes it through to the finals. The overall winner will receive £10,000, a custom-made trophy and use of the MX2002 logo for corporate and promotional stationery.