A BOLTON firm of solicitors, a boxer and an MP won awards at a ceremony to celebrate a range of achievements.

The second annual British Muslim Awards honoured people from the worlds of business, charity, sport, arts, politics and culture.

Yasmin Qureshi, MP for Bolton South East, was named Politician of the Year, Haroon Khan won the accolade for Best at Sport and Asons Solicitors were crowned Business of the Year at Salford City Stadium.

Haroon, aged 22, younger brother of boxer Amir Khan, was hailed for his achievements including winning a bronze medal in the 2010 Commonwealth Games. He said: “It was a great event. There was another boxer, a referee and a footballer. For me, winning the award gives me an extra boost.”

The glittering ceremony was attended by more than 400 people and was presented by lawyer and Bollywood actress Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh, who bec-ame an OBE for services to business and the Asian community in the recent New Year Honours.

There were finalists in 22 categories following thous-ands of nominations across the country.

Ms Qureshi, who was unable to attend due to an immigration debate in Parliament, said: “I’m delighted to have received this award.

“I engage with everyone and represent everyone in my constituency.”

Asons Solicitors, Bark Street, was named Business of the Year and hailed for its growth since it was set up five years ago.

Imran Akram, CEO, said: “It was the main award of the night. We were against some big businesses.

“It gives us the confidence to drive our business forward. There’s nearly 300 employees amongst us now.”

Sultan Choudhury, managing director of Islamic Bank of Britain which presented the awards, said: “The event serves to remind us that the Muslim community makes a commendable contribu-tion to British life and has a lot to be proud of.”

The event also raised money for The Well Foundation which aims to build wells, install hand pumps and establish health and sanitation programmes to provide accessible, clean water to stricken regions of the world.