A FLEDGLING Runcorn company has made history winning a prestigious nationwide accolade.

The Protein Works was named new business of the year at the 2014 National Business Awards.

Formed only two years ago, it is the first north west company and first sports nutrition brand to ever win the award.

This rapidly growing business has become the UK's second largest online brand with a revenue of more than £6 million.

Judges said: “An almost faultless business, The Protein Works demonstrated clarity, drive and focus, an impressive digital presence and substantial growth.

“Benchmarking excellence in every aspect of its business, it has achieved incredible customer engagement.”

The Manor Park company was founded in 2012 by Mark Coxhead, aged 44, Nick Smith, aged 42, and Karl Jacobie, aged 49.

Receiving the award at a gala dinner ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s Park Lane, Mr Coxhead said: “We've had an incredible year and this rounds it off in style.

“With such tough competition in the category, we're immensely proud to have won this award.

“It's a real team effort and this is testimony to not only our staff, but also our customers who spread the word far better than we could ever do.”

The company which employs 42 people has received five business awards in the last two months.

The firm recently moved from its original 12,000 sq ft home into a 40,000 sq ft warehouse and plans to double its workforce to cope with the growing demand.

Protein Works prides itself on using only the finest quality raw materials and innovative production processes using natural ingredients.

The business was awarded a six figure grant from the Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership’s business growth grant.

The Yorkshire Bank has provided a six figure sum allowing the business to now focus on its european growth plans.

Mr Jacobie added: "The future is very exciting as we look to take our concept into Europe, as well as continue to build on the success in the UK.

“We've got some ground-breaking products to bring to market in 2015 which will no doubt shake things up even more.”