Speaking of Sunseeker’s award, Robert Braithwaite MBE said: ‘The company has achieved tremendous growth in recent years and the Queen’s Award acknowledges our continued success in building the business further, and sustaining Sunseeker’s position as one of the world’s finest builders of luxury motoryachts.’

Fred Cole, International Paint's UK sales manager, told BB: ‘The award has been won by International Paint’s Marine and Protective Business Unit for the development of Intersleek 700. a silicone based, biocide free foul release coating designed for use on commercial vessels

‘It’s fantastic to have our technological advances recognised in this way,’ said Cole.
‘We’re very proud of our whole team at the Felling site which developed the product and now manufactures it for the global market.’

This is the 4th Queen's Award won by International. 'This is for Enterprise and Innovation,' said Cole.

Tacktick was one of only 40 companies from the 260 entrants to receive an Innovation Award. ‘This award is a fantastic acknowledgement of the efforts of the whole team who have worked so hard to make our products a success,’ said joint managing director Clive Johnson.

Farécla, the Ware based provider of surface finishing products to the marine industry, won its award for its efforts in international trade.

‘We knew that we were in the running for a Queen's Award this year,’ said MD Andy Ducker, ‘so when we were informed that we had actually been honoured, it came as a tremendous source of pride.’

David Taylor, who heads up Farécla's marine division, said: ‘This is fantastic news and a testament to the quality of Farécla's products and its offer to the markets it serves.’

And Aquapac also picked up an award in recognition of its continuous innovation and development over the last 23 years.

‘We sell in some 55 countries, from Hong Kong to Hawaii. Almost 80% of our sales are exported, with the USA our number one territory. The retail value of Aquapac sales last year was well over £4m,’ said chief executive Tim Turnbull.