It's time to put your business forward for a prestigious honour

The awards, due to take place at the Portsmouth Guildhall in February, recognise and celebrate good practice in the world of business, from apprentices all the way up to large businesses.

The prestigious event, organised by The News, is in its 16th year and sees hundreds of people attend a black-tie ceremony where the winners of the 15 categories are announced.

The News’ editor Mark Waldron said: ‘We have seen some really good entries already, but we’d like to encourage everybody interested to get their entries together as soon as possible.

‘The entry process is quick and simple, with just a short form to send in. The entries will then be collated and judged by a panel of experts.

‘These awards are one of the highlights of my year, and every year I am amazed at the calibre of businesses operating in our area.’

The event has attracted support from a range of businesses, organisations and educational establishments, including lead sponsor law firm Trethowans and South Downs College.

The college has sponsored the Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism category.

Aaron Butson, director of business growth and innovation at the college, said: ‘I am an experienced business development manager within the further education sector and I see the worth in colleges getting involved with the business community.

‘For me, getting involved with the awards is a great way to recognise the skills that are out there, but also putting the college in the heart of that community and showing them we believe in what they are doing.

‘It is recognition of them, but also making sure that the business community knows that we are here.’

The Business Excellence Awards are set to return to the Portsmouth Guildhall on February 10.

Organiser Liz Parker urged people to get their entries in before the deadline.

She said: ‘We’re looking for entries from those who can prove business achievement in their field. Whether in growth, innovation or pioneering new markets, we want to hear from you. You may have a high achiever or a team of excellence within your company – why not put them forward?

‘We know how busy everybody is, so we’ve extended our deadline to November 25 to give people more time to get their entries in.’

Go to jpsouthevents.co.uk for more.