The man behind a successful mask-making company has scooped an award.

Chris Isitt, pictured, the general manager of Wallingford-based Rubie's Masquerade Company, has received a Personal Achievement Award for his contribution over the last year to the party industry.

The industry is made up of about 2,000 retailers which sell party goods.

At an Outer Space fancy dress dinner in Birmingham - which staff from Rubie's base on the Hithercroft Industrial Estate attended in Star Wars costumes - the industry's leading figures gave him the award to mark his achievements since joining the company in 1998. Rubie's UK operation was launched four years ago by its American parent company.

Mr Isitt, 44, of Church Road, Cholsey, who is married with five children, said he was surprised and honoured.

He said: "I think it reflects not just the work I've done but also the work of everyone at the company."