Lancashire businesses rally behind Cuadrilla ahead of upcoming inquiry

Both groups believe that natural gas from shale could create up to 64,500 jobs and generate a £33bn supply chain to the UK economy.

Lee Petts, managing director at Preston-based Remsol and who was recently appointed chairman of the Lancashire branch of the Institute of Directors, said: "As businesses, our long-term success and the livelihoods of the people we employ are both dependent on Lancashire having a strong and thriving economy.

Claire Smith, president of StayBlackpool, who also attended the reception, said: “As a local businesswoman, I was thrilled to see so many local businesses coming out in support for the development of shale gas in Lancashire. "I’ve always said that if shale gas can be developed responsibly it could be really good for the area. It is no secret that in parts of Lancashire there are some real social and economic problems – so a new industry providing sustainable employment and investment in the local economy could be a real boost.”