THERE are just two weeks to go until we find out who has won this year’s coveted Cheshire Business Awards.

The awards will be presented at a black-tie gala evening at Chester’s Queen Hotel on November 19.

This year’s event promises to be a real celebration of all that is great about business across the county.

Despite the challenging economic climate, more firms than ever have put their names forward for our awards and the high standard of entries presented our independent panel of judges with a real headache.

Host for the evening will be TV newsreader and presenter, Lucy Meacock who is a great supporter of Cheshire businesses.

“The best news is that we have had more entries this year than ever before. It just shows that even in a tough climate there is still cause for celebration,” she said.

“It’s been a strange year but there is a real sense of optimism coming through. The huge number of entries this year is firm evidence of that.

“The irony is that some businesses are doing better than ever at the moment. Some company directors have admitted to me that they’re sometimes embarrassed to say how successful they are because no-one likes bragging when others are feeling the pinch.

“But we need to celebrate that success. That success is what will lead us out of this recession.

“That’s what will create the jobs of the future and give young people some of the same opportunities that we have had.

“Let’s take a stand and congratulate the high achievers. Let’s pay tribute to the business leaders who inspire others to believe in a brighter future. Let’s take pride in our region and the people who make it such a fine place to live and work.

“What I love about the Cheshire Business Awards is they bring together some of the leading business brains in the county. It gives the up-and-coming entrepreneur the chance to mingle with the people who form the backbone of some of our traditional industries.

“It’s a chance to say thank you for all of the hard work that’s done day in, day out. It’s also a chance to relax with colleagues or clients and to have a great night out. And what better early Christmas present could there be than to go home at the end of the night with a top award for your business?”

The event will start at 6.30pm with a drinks reception, followed by the awards presentations and a four-course meal. The awards ceremony is due to conclude at approximately 11pm, followed by entertainment by the fabulous eight-piece soul band the Funky Doctors.

To book tickets for the evening, call our events team on 01244 606472 or email: enquiries@cheshirebusinessawards.co.uk