The ABF celebrated its one thousandth member at the association's annual dinner.

The cream of Lancashire's business leaders were in Blackburn for the event - the largest gathering of minority ethnic businesses in the UK.

Ismat Shanaz became the ABF's 1000th member on a night when the association was praised for helping businesses reach their full potential.

More than 700 people attended to hear words of support from Jack Straw MP, Ajaz Ahmed, the founder of Freeserve, Paul Blakewell, Area Directer of HSBC Bank and Mike Jatania, CEO of the Lornamead Group.

ABF Chairman Tahir Mohsan, who founded Simonstone-based Time Computers also spoke on the night. He said, "The ABF has now established itself as an exemplary organisation nationally. It will continue to be focused on the needs of the members."

"This year the ABF has successfully expanded into North and West Lancashire, and now boasts more than 200 members from Preston alone taking the total over 1000."

Speaking on the night the Foreign Secretary Jack Straw praised the country's Asian business leaders for being a driving force behind Britain's booming economy.

Mr Straw praised the role played by Asian businesses in the UK's economic growth. "Twenty years ago, Britain was the basket case in Europe, bottom in terms of the national wealth created," he said.

"Twenty years later, we are very near the top and are outstripping France and Germany.

"There is a very important reason that has contributed to this growth. It is the disproportionate contribution made by Asian businesses.

"The Asian community has brought new ideas, new vision and a great spirit of entrepreneurship."

He added, "I would like to congratulate Asian businesses for what they have done in Lancashire."

The ABF was formed in 2000 to represent the needs of the rapidly expanding minority ethnic business community in Lancashire.

Chief executive Khalid Saifullah said the prestigious event had become an important date for businesses.

"It creates a vibrant atmosphere where businesses can celebrate their success and the important role entrepreneurship plays in growing and sustaining our regional economy, while creating wealth and opportunities for many more people," he added.