TODAY we launch the 2005 Lancashire Evening Telegraph Business Awards - the premier event in East Lancashire's industrial and commercial calendar.

This year there are ten award categories - two more than last year - covering every facet of business achievement and enterprise by companies of all sizes and the all-important individuals who make them what they are.

The awards are an opportunity to showcase the kind of talent which is the lifeblood of the area's economy and highlight the vital contribution it makes to East Lancashire as a whole.

Expert judges will shortlist the three top entries in awards for Innovation and Design, Training Excellence and the best Exporter, Retailer and Business Deal.

They will also select the finalists for New Employee, Start-up Business, Small Business, Business Person and finally the Business of the Year.

Winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony to be held the Dunkenhalgh Hotel.

The impact of business, industry and commerce on all our lives is often overlooked and taken for granted even though we are all involved in one way or another as employees, customers or suppliers.

These awards are a chance to put that right and give the best firms and their workforces the rewards and recognition they deserve.

Historically each year the number and quality of entries in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph Business Awards has steadily improved.

The sheer diversity of businesses has also expanded and we expect this year to be no exception.

But you cannot win it without being in it.

So ensure your business and its employees enter so that success stories can be heralded and East Lancashire can shine as a beacon for other areas of the country to aspire to.