AS the guns rang out in York today to mark the Queen's 77th birthday, one York woman had more reason than most to celebrate.

Julie Rudkin received the Queen's Award for Enterprise as part of the birthday celebrations.

Julie was rewarded with the innovation prize for the success of her "groundbreaking" Travel Counsellors firm.

The Burnholme Avenue company was rewarded for its "innovative delivery of a personalised consultancy service to travel customers" and its technology, which allowed customers to book holidays from their own homes.

Julie said: "I am thrilled that the expertise and dedication that myself and my colleagues have invested in Travel Counsellors has been recognised by such a prestigious honour."

Travel Counsellors' managing director, David Speakman, said: "This is a magnificent honour which recognises the entrepreneurial spirit which drives Julie and all our Travel Counsellors."

Also celebrating today was Kirkbymoorside electronics firm Zetechtics, which scooped the award for "continuous innovation".

Its product, Jupiter, is the off-shore oil industry's leading sub-sea computer control system.

Scarborough-based McCain Foods also gained an award for the creation and development of McCain Home Fries - styled as the ultimate frozen chip.

At York's Museum Gardens, a 21-gun salute rang out at noon.

Hosted by Brigadier D A H Shaw, the Army's Commander for York Garrison and North East England, a saluting troop of three 105mm light guns was provided by soldiers of 40 Regiment Royal Artillery from Topcliffe.

An inspection was carried out by Sir Paul Nicholson, Lord-Lieutenant of Durham and musical accompaniment was provided by the Kings Division Waterloo Band.

Updated: 10:34 Monday, April 21, 2003