Excellence that shines through

MOST businessmen and women would tell you they aspire to excellence. Few could say they always achieve it, especially as Britain's economy has faced a series of convulsions over the last two years. There are many in Yorkshire, however, whose drive, innovation and entrepreneurial flair has brought them success, and they are an example to the rest of Britain.

From young owner-managers powering the green economy, to long-established companies taking the products and skills of this region around the globe, the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business awards honoured the boldest and best. The hard work of every shortlisted firm deserves praise because they are creating the jobs of tomorrow.

Although the winners ranged from James Heal, a small textile testing equipment business in Halifax, to giants like Pace, the Saltaire set-top box maker which has taken turnover above 1bn, they were united by their innovative spirit. They all built on conventional wisdom with the help of new technology and overseas markets to steer a course through the recession.

The awards were a chance to celebrate their success, as well as that of the many other strong Yorkshire companies which didn't make it onto the shortlist this year. The evening also gave George Osborne something to consider, as he puts the finishing touches to the harsh cuts expected in tomorrow's Comprehensive Spending Review. It was as good a

demonstration as any that Britain's businesses, particularly young ones, must be given support and the freedom to operate without a heavy burden of red tape.

The presence of Sir Stuart Rose, the chairman of Marks & Spencer, was a timely reminder that Yorkshire businesses can go on to conquer the world. M&S, which began as a market stall in Kirkgate in Leeds, is no longer headquarted in the city but it was the vision and ambition of two local traders which set it on the right track. It is a lesson for all those firms in this region that, with an energetic and innovative attitude, the opportunities are endless.