A NORTH-East company has beaten competition from across the UK to be shortlisted for the International Business Awards 2003.

The Northern Offshore Federation Export Club has made it to the shortlist of the awards, which recognise and reward the efforts of British companies in international markets.

Grant Collier, of award organisers Highbury Nexus, said: "We received a record number of entries for this year's awards. Despite another tough year for international trade and investment, many British companies - have shown a huge commitment in developing export opportunities."

The winners will be announced on November 10.