ENTRIES are now being invited for the final quarter of the Lancashire Evening Telegraph East Lancashire Business Awards.

The winners of the third quarter will be announced next month but companies interested in applying for the fourth quarter's prizes can enter now.

The awards build on the success of previous years but this year we have introduced a quarterly award scheme, in addition to the annual presentation, with more than £3,000 of prizes up for grabs.

The competition aims to recognise and reward flair, enterprise and business achievements as well as initiatives to improve training and individual development for both employees and employers.

The awards will also spotlight individual people who make a real difference to the success of their business.

With mainstream support coming from ELTEC, Business Link, Ultraframe and Macdonald Hotels, the competition is organised by the Lancashire Evening Telegraph in conjunction with Cartmell Public Relations.

There are four categories and entries can be submitted for any number of these. They are:

Company of the Quarter

Small Business of the Quarter

Personal Achievement Award (focusing on training and staff development for employees or employers)

Judges' Special Award (each quarter this will be themed to spotlight key areas of the commercial world such as use of technology, export achievement and marketing).

The closing date for the final quarter is October 19.

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