PENDLE Council is to stage its first business awards.

The ceremony will have nine categories to highlight work done by all businesses, ranging from individuals, small and medium-sized organisations and large companies.

All short-listed companies will be visited by the judges and invited to the awards ceremony.

Pendle mayor Coun Allan Buck, said he was eager to see all types of Pendle businesses recognised.

Coun Buck said: "We have a lot of successful businesses in Pendle that deserve recognition and I feel this is an ideal way to do it.

"The awards ceremony will be a rewarding and enjoyable night out for all those who attend."

The judging panel will consist of Pendle mayor Coun Allan Buck, Kelly Eardley, the council's business support and development officer and Kevin Clark, executive director for Pendle Enterprise Trust.

Businesses can contact Coun Buck to enter the awards, which take place on Wednesday February 27, at the Fence Gate Inn.