AN OLD Trafford language centre has been voted the best in Britain for training businesses.

The Languages for Business Centre (LBC) - run by Sale couple Eric and Carla Brass - beat off stiff competition to scoop the National Languages for Export Award for 2001.

And the centre is bidding to build on its success as it continues to help those businesses - especially in the North West - that are working with their European counterparts on a regular basis.

Company Director of LBC, Carla Brass says: "We were shocked to win the regional award back in July so this has been an overwhelming result for us.

"Winning this award is good news - not just for us but also for businesses planning to develop internationally and hopefully it will raise awareness that LBC is a competent and affordable partner capable of providing a very personal service for all their language needs."

German native Carla founded LBC in 1992 in an attempt to offer language training for businesses in the area.

Husband Eric joined the team four years later and since then the centre has helped Trafford businesses progress in the European market.

Carla adds: "I think that having a background in manufacturing industries in Europe has helped me and my colleagues understand the needs of exporters.

"I think that is why our clients have been so impressed and why one of them put us forward for this accolade."

The centre at Alexander House, Talbot Road is now looking to the future and considering ways to add to its training programmes.

Eric says: "We are already providing on-line tutorials for students and are constantly evaluating our multi-media packs to support a company's ongoing training.

"Our aim is to help north west companies compete on a level playing field in Europe and this award recognises the hard work we have put in to achieve that aim."

For more information about LBC, visit the website at www.languages-for-business.com or call them on 877-8964.

CAPTION: (l-r) Sir Peter Parker, chairman of the National Languages for Export Campaign; Eric Brass, LBC Director; Carla Brass, LBC Director; Frazer Chesterman, Director of Brintex Ltd; Sir David Wright, Chief Executive of Trade Partners UK - award sponsors.