NOMINATIONS are now being taken for this year's Wirral Business Awards.

The annual competition, hosted by Wirral Chamber of Commerce, is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, sole traders, charities and individuals.

There are 11 categories to choose from.

They are:

  • Business of the year (1-25 employees)
  • Business of the year (26-99 employees)
  • Business of the year (100+ employees)
  • Business person of the year
  • International trade award
  • Low carbon award
  • Investment of the year
  • Sustainability award
  • Community business of the year
  • People development award
  • Newcomer of the year

The awards are recognised as a key business and networking event in the region's business calendar.

Paula Basnett, chief executive of Wirral Chamber of Commerce, said: "The diversity of the applications received usually demonstrates the vast range of businesses in Wirral.

"I am excited by the launch of the 2014 event and looking forward to seeing the entries for all the different award categories.

"We are encouraging as many companies as possible, which meet the competition criteria, to send in their applications which can be completed online at www.wirralbusinessawards.com

"Wirral is a vibrant centre for business and it is our businesses, both large and small, new and established, which are driving our economy forward."

The winners of each category will be announced at a black-tie gala dinner held at Thornton Manor on September 26.

Businesses can enter more than one category which covers the period January 1 to December 31 2013 and the closing date for entries is Friday, May 30.

Full details are from www.wirralbusinessawards.com or by emailing info@wirralbusinessawards.com