AN internet marketing company set up just 18 months ago has struck gold in a best business competition, 12 months after picking up silver at the same awards.

E-C Plus Ltd, which is based at Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, received its Business of the Year Award at a presentation held by Wyre Forest Business Club on Friday. Chris Thacker, Chris Knight, Carole Manton and Ray Manton celebrate their their top business award.

Managing director Ray Manton, who founded the company with his wife Carole, said the firm, which specialises in business website development and search engine positioning, was going from strength to strength.

"We went into business in Wyre Forest but are now getting orders from across the UK," he said.

The firm employs two people and is looking to recruit more staff.

It also came first in the Small Business Awards category, while the Ethical Training Company, Kinver, came top in the Micro-Business Awards and second in the overall winners awards.

Third place in the overall winners category went to The House of Learning, of Stourport.