SUSTAINED export growth has earned a second Queen's Award for Sheppey-based Abbott Laboratories.

Neil Fenn, Abbott UK's manufacturing director, was presented with the Queen's Award for Enterprise: International Trade, by the Lord Lieutenant of Kent Alan Willett during a celebration lunch attended by 150 proud members of the Abbott force, a group of local dignitaries and prominent community figures.

The award was in recognition of the company's consistent growth in international trade, sustained over six years. The company won the Queen's Award for Export Achievement in 1994.

This award reflects Abbott's consistent overseas sales growth - around 20 per cent compound growth over the last five years.

Mark Haywood, general manager for Abbott Laboratories Ltd UK, at Queenborough, said: "Our success can be attributed to the efficiency and productivity gains achieved by our considerable investment in capital equipment, systems, training, personnel and the community.

"However most importantly our success proves that the Abbott team is one which works well together - we're very proud of our people and the recognition that this award gives their daily activities."