TWO companies with a social conscience are in line for a national award. Construction company the Esh Group, and the Newton Aycliffe site of manufacturer 3M UK, both in County Durham, are shortlisted for the national Business in the Community (BITC) Awards for Excellence.

The awards recognise companies that demonstrate outstanding corporate responsibility.

The pair were among five North-East companies awarded a total of seven "Big Ticks" by BITC in the regional final.

Based on the Team Valley Trading Estate, in Gateshead, BITC shows firms how corporate social responsibility can be profitable.

Ruth Poulten, BITC North East communications manager, said: "The Big Tick is effectively an endorsement mark.

"It reflects the way a company organises and integrates its responsible business practices and demonstrates its positive impact on society and on the business itself."

Northumbrian Water, based in Durham, and the Esh Group, both won two ticks, while 3M, Homegroup and CSC MetroCentre, received one each.

So far, only about 100 companies across the UK have been awarded a Big Tick.

BITC chief executive Julia Cleverdon said: "Responsible businesses really understand the links between competitiveness and social cohesion.

"Companies that win a Big Tick in our Awards for Excellence are showing a commitment to collaborative action with real benefits for their business."

The winners will be presented with their awards at a champagne reception in the Baltic arts centre in Gateshead today.

The Esh Group and 3M will also attend the national awards at a gala dinner in the Royal Albert Hall, London, on July 5.

Esh is in contention to be named the National Example of Excellence for its innovative work in addressing a skills shortage in the construction industry, while 3M could win a similar accolade for developing a successful employee health programme.

Business in the Community North East regional director Marion Schooler said: "Gaining a Big Tick is no mean feat.

"Some of these companies have been working tirelessly for years to obtain it and to have two North-East companies shortlisted nationally is absolutely phenomenal."

The Awards for Excellence, held in association with the Financial Times, are sponsored by the Department of Trade and Industry, and supported by Marks and Spencer.

For further details call 0191-487 7799, or visit the website www.bitc.org.uk