Northampton’s commitment to Europe has been recognised by the Council of Europe.
During a ceremony in Strasbourg next month, the town will be awarded the prestigious European Diploma of the Council of Europe.
The award is in recognition of the efforts made by the town to work with European businesses.
The leader of Northampton Borough Council, Councillor David Mackintosh (Con, Rectory Farm) welcomed the award, but confirmed that he would not attend the awards ceremony.
He said: “This award recognises how our town is positioning itself as a great place for European companies to do business, share ideas and create partnerships.
“Many of our local employers recognise the potential in trading with Europe and we also have seen the benefit in attracting major investors from the continent such as Carlsberg.”
The award is made every year by the Council of Europe and Northampton will be one of 26 cities and towns across Europe to receive the honour in 2013.
The judging committee looked at a range of factors including the town’s business community, cultural offer, education and community events and the links that have been established between Northampton and towns across Europe.
Northampton South’s Conservative MP, Brian Binley, said: “This is recognition of the work being done to move Northampton forward and we are now being taken seriously in Europe and beyond as a place with great potential to do business and invest in.”
The diploma has been awarded to cities and towns across Europe since 1955.