A South Cumbrian businessman met King Charles III at a Buckingham Palace reception to celebrate small firms.
Barry Leahey, president of Playdale Playgrounds, based in Haverthwaite, was among those invited to the event, which was also attended by Prince Edward, The Duke of Gloucester and the Duke of Kent.
Playdale was recognised for its progressive mindset over the past five years in the way it had prepared for Brexit and continued growth throughout COVID-19.
Mr Leahey said: “It is Playdale’s mission to make smiles for all generations through play, so it was great to have the opportunity when speaking to His Majesty the King, to not only tell him about the success of Playdale but also how his grandchildren have been using our play equipment outside the royal residence, which made the king smile.”
The event, held last Wednesday, was attended by over 150 businesses across the UK, each nominated by an industry body for their contribution to the UK economy.