TROWBRIDGE-based mobile phone company Virgin Mobile recently had a double celebration.

The Richard Branson-owned company celebrated its first birthday in Trowbridge and attracting its half a millionth customer.

The company, which is based at the White Horse business park and employs around 1,500 people, was also voted Best Network 2000 by consumer magazine Mobile Choice, for offering customers the best deal and service available in 2000.

Richard Branson said: "We're thrilled to have received this award. It recognises the enormous contribution all the staff at Virgin Mobile have made in making Britain's newest mobile phone company the best. It's a great compliment and a tremendous accolade to receive on our first birthday."

Virgin now aims to have 750,000 customers signed up by the end of the year.