A family-run signs, graphics and print company is two steps away from being crowned Britain's champion of small business.

The Sussex Sign Company, based in Newhaven, faces five firms in the southern final of the British Small Business Champion 2004 awards.

In October, judges at a ceremony in Winchester will choose a winner to go through to the national final the following month.

SSC was founded by husband-and-wife team Pam and Peter Lake and their son-in-law Norman Mayhew in 1993 producing small signs and van livery.

It has increased profits by 20 per cent every year since it was established and last year won a Sussex Business Award.

Thursday August 19, 2004