SUCCESSFUL companies are being urged to apply for one of the most prestigious business awards schemes in the two counties of Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

The fourth annual Chamber Awards are taking place and nominations are being sought from companies throughout the two counties in seven different categories - including a new one for high-achieving exporters.

Firms do not have to be members of the Chamber of Commerce Herefordshire and Worcestershire, but those that are, will automatically be entered into the national British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) awards with a chance to win £25,000 later in the year.

Last year, winners came from all over Worcestershire and Herefordshire, with Moyles Motivational Market-ing of Warndon, Worcester, taking the overall title of Business of the Year.

"Recognising the success of businesses is a vital role for us," said Christine Jones, chief executive of the chamber.

"There are real business stars out there - companies winning overseas contracts, introducing new innovative products, developing the skills of their workforce, or taking the massive step of starting up a new business.

"Winning any of the seven awards guarantees valuable publicity for a business but, just as important, is the sense of pride and achievement that cascades throughout the organisation."

The seven awards categories are: Business of the Year, Award for Skills and Work-force Development, Award for Business Commitment to the Community, Entrepreneur of the Year, Export Business of the Year, Award for Innovation through Technol-ogy, and the Most Promsing New Business.

The Chamber Awards will culminate in a Gala Dinner which is to be held in Worcester Cathedral on Thursday, July 21.

The deadline for nominations is just a week away - on Friday, June 10.

All entries for the award must be on an official nomination form which can be obtained by calling Samantha Dubique on 0845 6411535 or by e-mailing s.dubique@chambercs.co.uk