A CROSS Hills firm has been shortlisted for a coveted accolade.

Airedale Chemical is a finalist in the 'reputation' category of the Chemical Industries Association (CIA) awards.

The prize rewards high-achieving companies which have enhanced their own, and the industry's, reputation.

Airedale Chemical has been recognised for its work with customers, employees and the community.

The Skipton Road firm, which manufactures and distributes bulk chemicals, allows qualified customers supervised access to its laboratory facilities to get involved in adapting their recipes.

It has also sponsored sports teams and staged open days for schools.

Daniel Marr, group marketing manager, said: "We recognise that valuing our communities – whether that's the local school, our own team members or customers – is just as important as taking care of profit margins.

"We have worked hard to put something back and to have that recognised by such a major organisation as the CIA is truly rewarding."

The company – which has a 110-strong workforce – has recently invested £500,000 to expand its transport fleet, with three new vehicles.

The awards ceremony takes place in Newcastle next month.