Last updated 09:20, Friday, 10 October 2008

A CUMBRIAN public relations agency is in the running for two top awards for its work helping to protect the Cumberland sausage.

Osprey Communications, which was set up by Eric Robson – the Cumbria Tourism chairman and a TV and radio presenter – and Paul Gardner, has been shortlisted by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) for the North West’s Outstanding Small Consultancy and for the Best Use of Media Relations prizes.

The awards are usually dominated by companies in Manchester and Osprey Communications is the only Cumbrian PR agency to reach the final round.

Osprey’s nomination came for its work on a Made in Cumbria campaign to have the Cumberland sausage protected by law.

Managing director Mr Gardner, a former BBC journalist and an adviser at the Treasury, said: “There is considerable competition for these awards, so we’re delighted to have been shortlisted in two categories.

“Its recognition not just of our efforts but also for the clients we work with.”