MALVERN Theatres chief executive Nic Lloyd, Worcester fundraiser Bill Davison and Evesham entrepreneur Richard Austin have all been nominated for the title of Midlander of the Year 2002.

The Carlton Television award, supported by the Evening News, was launched in May and seeks to honour exceptional people who have done most to raise the reputation of the Midlands.

Mr Lloyd was nominated by two of his staff, prompted by theatre patrons who felt he should be commended for his work for Malvern Theatres over the last 10 years.

They cited his skills as a commercial manager and business executive, together with his "limitless energy, enthusiasm and immense flair, love and knowledge of the performing arts".

His achievements include management of a £7.5m redevelopment campaign, securing the residency of the English Symphony Orchestra, bringing high-profile productions and major stars to Malvern and actively encouraging the theatre's education and community programme.

He is currently leading a management bid to take over the running of the theatres, as an alternative to a commercial takeover.

Mr Davison, of Worboys Road, St John's, Worcester, was nominated by his wife, Sally, for his work to help various charities over the last eight years, raising more than £60,000 through charity events.

Safety lectures

Besides caring for his nine-year-old son, Robert, who has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, Mr Davison gives free safety lectures for the emergency services.

He focuses his fund-raising on the Acorns Hospice in Selly Oak and has even written to Prince Charles to solicit his support.

In addition, he has raised funds for the NSPCC and the Radio Wyvern Charity Snowball. "He doesn't seek recognition, but is driven by the belief that anyone can make a difference," said Mrs Davison.

Mr Austin, managing director of Evesham Technology, was nominated by a member of his staff for his achievement as founder, MD and guiding light of the company, which is now the biggest personal computer manufacturer in the Midlands.

Mr Austin began in 1983 with a small shop in Evesham selling Sinclair Spectrums and now has a four-acre site on the Vale Business Park, with a turnover of £120m and more than 600 employees throughout the country.

Nominees are being profiled on Central News and in local newspapers. Viewers and readers will have the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidates later this year.