AMBLESIDE cinema and restaurant Zeffirellis has been announced as a finalist in the National Family Business of the Year Awards 2017.

The awards recognise the diversity and strength of family firms across the UK.

The business was opened 37 years ago by chairman Derek Hook, whose sister, Dorothy Smith, is now managing director.

Mrs Smith’s husband, Graham, is a director and property manager and brother, Raymond Hook, is also a director.

Managing director of Family Business United, Paul Andrews, said: “We are delighted to be able to put together such a vibrant bunch of family businesses, some that have succeeded for numerous generations and continue to thrive.

“These awards really do recognise some of the outstanding family firms and really help put family business on the map.”

The business has previously won best food and drink establishment at the recent Cumbria Family Business Awards.

Director of Coulson Associates and sponsors of the North and Northern Ireland award, Sue Coulson, said: “Any one of the finalists would make worthy winners and ambassadors for their sector, not to mention the region that they represent too.”

The awards take place during a gala reception in the May Fair Hotel in London on June 8.