The outgoing chief executive of finance company Cattles has been given a top award for his work in improving the lives of thousands of people across the UK.

Sean Mahon was presented with a Cares Leadership Award for his inspirational leadership.

Cares is a well-respected business volunteering programme in the UK which gives employees the opportunity to do good work for the communities in which they live and work.

Mr Mahon has been involved in Cares since it was launched in 1999. He chaired Leeds Cares from 1999 until 2004, when he took on the chairmanship of the National Cares Leadership Team.

The awards were presented in front of over 450 business leaders at the Royal Armouries in Leeds to witness the powerful impact made by regional organisations to their local communities.

Business in the Community is celebrating 25 years as a champion of doing business the ethical way The honour comes as Mr Mahon prepares to step down as chief executive of Cattles at the firm's interim profit results on September 13.

He will be replaced by Lloyds TSB managing director David Postings.

Mr Mahon: "Five years ago we undertook an employee survey in which only 35 per cent of the company responded.

"Last year, 85 per cent took part with 80 per cent of our employees saying they were proud to work at Cattles.

"This would not have happened before our involvement with the Cares project and Business in the Community.

"I would urge all other business in the region to pick up the phone and find out what they can do to help - it doesn't take a lot to make a massive impact in your community."

Elsewhere Bettys & Taylors, who operate a café in Ilkley, were recognised at the Business in the Community Awards for Excellence at the Royal Albert Hall.

The company was presented with the award in front of Prince Charles and former US vice-president Al Gore at the ceremony for its achievements in supporting coffee farmers the world over.