A Northern Ireland-based luggage delivery business has won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

Adam Ewart appeared on Dragon’s Den after establishing Send My Bag in 2010.

He brokered deals with logistics companies for cargo space to provide a service that cut queues at check-in for business travellers and students alike.

Mr Ewart said: “Since Send My Bag’s inception, I have been passionate about providing the most efficient, best value shipping service.

“Winning the Queen’s Award for Enterprise is a testament to the hard work of an ambitious team and a huge honour.

“Overall, I attribute our rapid growth to the exceptional talent in our Northern Ireland HQ.

“In 2012, we had only five employees and we now employ 32 outstanding people – and we are only going in one direction.”

Now in its 52nd year, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise is seen as the most prestigious business award in the country.

Two other Northern Ireland businesses were among 230 winners across the UK.

They include:

– Kelvatek, a technology developer in Lisburn, which won an award for innovation.

– Unicorn Flooring Ltd, a washroom products and steel fabrications business in Lisburn, also wins an award for international trade.

Business Secretary Greg Clark said: “The UK has some of the most entrepreneurial and innovative minds in the world delivering jobs, growth and greater choice for consumers and I am proud to see a wealth of these businesses being recognised today.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, supporting more than 300,000 jobs and revenues of £31 billion in Northern Ireland. Through our Industrial Strategy we are building a Britain in which they will continue to thrive.”