A former company director who died earlier this year has been posthumously honoured at this year’s Bolton News Business Awards.

The Special Recognition Award was given to Bernard Waldron, well known in the town as a former director of missile manufacturer MDBA.

It was presented at a ceremony held at the Bolton Whites Hotel last week, which saw businesses from all across the borough and all sectors of the economy honoured.

Keyone speaker Cllr Nick Peel, leader of Bolton Council, said: “There are so many exciting things happening in Bolton, much more than I can cover in the short time I have with you tonight.

“So, if I could leave you with one message it would be this: Come and talk to us.

“Talk to us about our regeneration projects, talk to us about the support Business Bolton can offer and talk to us about how you can help us shape Bolton’s bright future.

“Finally, tonight, I want to thank the Bolton News for inviting me, and for arranging this fantastic event.

“It is absolutely right that we take the time to celebrate and champion the many outstanding businesses which contribute so much to life in Bolton.

“I think we will see tonight that there has never been a better time to do business in Bolton.”

Tributes were paid to Mr Waldron in July this year after his death at the age of just 67.

A statement from MDBA at the time said: “He was a larger-than-life character who made time for our younger community, championing apprenticeship schemes to ensure the business was always bringing in new talent.

“Undoubtedly, one of his proudest moments was Her Majesty the Queen awarding him an MBE for services to the defence industry, which will have included his promotion of young people in the industry and charitable undertakings.”