Buckinghamshire’s business hub has been presented with a ‘highly commended’ award for improving the business environment by a government minister.

Small business minister, Margot James, presented Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF) with the Enterprising Britain Award - which celebrates local initiatives which boost business and growth.

BBF was launched in 2011 and aims to enable the business community to play a “key role” in helping other companies thrive.

Philippa Batting, Managing Director of Buckinghamshire Business First, said: “Achieving national recognition for making a difference to business in Buckinghamshire has been a great boost to the team and evidence that we must be doing something right.

“Buckinghamshire is known as the ‘Entrepreneurial Heart of Britain’ and over the last two years we have supported nearly 9,000 businesses and helped to create over 1,400 jobs.”

Margot James, added: “It’s great to see the support available for business owners making a real difference and driving entrepreneurial spirit across the UK.

“These awards recognise the value of local support and show what can be achieved when people who know their community best make their own decisions.”