RECYCLING company Aylesford Newsprint is in line for a manufacturing award.

The company, which converts old newspapers and magazines into high-quality newsprint has been shortlisted in the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Manufacturing Excellence 2002 awards.

John Ling, the Institution's technical development manager, said there had been a high number of entries. "This fact alone defies the perception that the manufacturing industry in currently in downturn," he said.

"The diversity in the companies shortlisted - from newsprint to a carpet manufacturer - also reflects the strong and varied manufacturing base in the UK."

Finalists will be announced in mid-June, with the winners presented with their awards at a gala VIP ceremony in London on June 26.