THERE are just a few days left until the deadline for the region’s businesses to enter our Cheshire Business Awards.

The last date for entries is Monday July 21 with judging taking place the week ending August 1 and the shortlist being announced on August 8.

Entry forms can be obtained by calling 0151 472 2570, e-mailing enquiries@cheshirebusinessawards or visiting the website: www.chesterchronicle/cba

Now in their fifth year, the awards celebrate the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of the region’s firms.

The winners will be announced at a fabulous gala dinner being held at Chester’s Crowne Plaza hotel on Friday, September 19, hosted by TV personality Lucy Meacock. This has become a highly-regarded event on the county’s social calendar, when the county’s most successful achievers gain recognition for the part they play in adding to the region’s prosperity and economic success.

The awards will be judged in nine categories:

Business Start-up Award sponsored by Bentley

For businesses which began trading after January 1 2007.

Small Business Award

For firms with between one and 30 employees which can demonstrate all round business excellence.

Medium Business Award

For employers with between 31 and 200 employees which can demonstrate all round business excellence.

Large Business Award sponsored by Cheshire & Warrington Economic Alliance

For employers with 200-plus staff.

Employer of the Year Award sponsored by Hill Dickinson Chester

We are looking for an employer who can demonstrate excellence in their approach to workforce development.

Community Award

For businesses which have schemes, initiatives or policies which have a positive impact on the local community or environment.

Young Business Person of the Year Award sponsored by Scottish Power

For people who are able to demonstrate outstanding achievements in their field.

Women in Business Award

We are looking for a woman or group of women who are high achievers and an inspiration to all women in the business community.

Business Person of the Year Award sponsored by Cheshire County Council

We’re looking for someone who stands out from the crowd and inspires those around them.

Any enquiries can be e-mailed to: enquiries@cheshirebusinessawards.co.uk

To book tickets for the gala dinner, call the events team 0151 472 2570.