ONE of the leading figures behind the phenomenal success of the Heath Business and Technical Park has been named Entrepreneur of the Year.

John Lewis received the accolade and silver plaque at the annual gala dinner of Halton Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise.

The chamber's chief executive Bill Badrock, said: "He has brought investment into the borough. It is not his role, but he has done it.

"He is a guy who has not only gone the extra yard, he has gone the extra mile."

Mr Lewis is marketing director of SOG Limited, a privately run company that turned the former ICI HQ into a flourishing business park, attracting more than 100 UK and international companies.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Lewis, said: "It is a great honour to receive this award. There are so many entrepreneurs now here in Halton, the borough is certainly becoming a sought after area.

"The more businesses it attracts, the more businesses want to develop here. These are very exciting times."

More than 300 top business leaders and civic dignitaries joined Halton MP Derek Twigg and Halton's Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Pat Tyrrell and his wife, Jean for the event.

David Parr, chief executive of Halton Council, was the keynote speaker.

TV personality Jim Bowen, former star of Bullseye and The Comediens entertained guests after the dinner.

The evening raised £2,000 for Halton Haven Hospice.