The nationwide campaign was launched in October by the Newspaper Society and backed by Prime Minister David Cameron and Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden.

It will see 1,500 firms receive £15m of free advertising to help boost their businesses in 2012.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne-based Monkey Print, which produces a range of products, including printed roller banners, outdoor banners, exhibition graphics and posters, was one of those successful businesses.

Proprietor Iain Inglis said: "This win is inspiring because it gives us independent confirmation that Monkey Print's success has been driven by our understanding of our product and service, as well as our capacity and limitations."

"We have won because we have demonstrated a clear understanding of what business is about: flexibility, adaptive thinking and great service."

Monkey Print now has a place in the national competition.

Inglis added: "We have only ever concentrated on e-marketing so far, and winning free advertising through the press is an exciting opportunity.

"I’m also very pleased that as part of our prize we will get mentoring from such successful business people, as after two good years, we won’t be resting on our laurels. We will be taking any help and experience we are offered."