A South Cumbrian firm is in the running to win up to £10,000 of business support.

Eco-Mist Biotechnics, based in Milnthorpe, makes hygiene products to eradicate almost 100 per cent of pathogens and are harmless to humans, animals and the environment.

It is now competing for an award at Venturefest North West later on Wednesday, November 20 in Manchester and had made the final shortlist of 12.

The company was set up by Eric Warren, his son Gary and Graham Mylchreest.

It uses a dispenser to release the mist into the atmosphere and cleans the area. The company is currently in talks with the Portuguese government to supply the system into 1,000 new ambulances.

Graham said: "Hospitals normally use hydrogen peroxide, which is toxic. It mean if a hospital cleans a ward, that ward is out of use for a few hours. Our product is non-toxic so it means that doesn't happen."

It is also currently undergoing clinical trials in the North East with the NHS and the trio have sold it into Europe and the Middle East.

Finalists will have to pitch their innovations to a panel of investors and an audience of potential customers.

Graham added: "If we win, this will be transformational for the business. We've been working on it for a few years now – we've all got day jobs too – but we believe 2020 will be our year."

Suzanne Caldwell, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce's deputy chief executive, said: “I’m delighted to see a Cumbrian business in the final of this challenging regional competition.

“The prestige and increased profile that comes from pitching in front of leading players from across the North West has enabled previous finalists to significantly widen their client base, launch products and services and secure new funding.”