A MAJOR North Kent employer has won a prestigious award for its outstanding business performance - and is hoping to create more jobs.

A large part of Viewframe Pictures plc's workforce is from Dartford and surrounding areas and staff are celebrating the accolade of International Trade Category of the Queen's Award for Enterprise.

Steve Holmes, managing director of Viewframe, said: "We intend to use the award as a springboard for future growth and are working hard to expand our export markets and therefore create new jobs in the local community."

He added: "We are very honoured to have won this award. We have loyal and highly committed staff who have been very much part of this achievement.

"The company certainly has no intention of resting on its laurels and has ambitious plans for the future."

The Queen, advised by the Prime Minister and an independent advisory committee, makes the awards each year to UK companies that have achieved outstanding commercial success.