AN ECO-FRIENDLY firm in Cirencester has been applauded for its sustainable thinking and has since received a highly sought-after award.

Magna Partnership Ltd received the Green Business of the Year Award at the Cirencester Business Awards earlier this year, for its work in encouraging its clients to use renewable materials.

Judges at the awards, organised by Cirencester Chamber of Commerce, picked out the property company for its aims to embed sustainable thinking into the work it does while also trying to influence those around them to do the same.

Run by Simon Large, Magna is a small firm of chartered surveyors providing project management, quantity surveying and development advice to properties in the area.

The company is currently made up of just three employees and has been running for 12 years in the area. It has project managed the building work of the town’s post office, Corinium Museum, Cirencester College and others.

Founder of Magna, Simon, 59, said he has been involved in the Chamber for many years but that this is the first time he has entered the awards.

"We've won awards over the years but I've never actually entered one before. It was a surprise," said Simon. "It's a little bit of recognition and nice to have."

Simon added that he enjoys being part of the Chamber as it allows him to keep is ear to the ground on what is happening locally.

"I entered into Green Business of the Year because I felt my business had a connection with that particular category," he added. "I encourage people to invest in green technologies. Building and construction is energy hungry. We try and encourage use of renewable materials and technologies. It's something I've been trying to do all through my career."

Simon lives in Minchinhampton, in his own specially built eco-house with his wife Jane. He has two children who have already grown up and left home.