MALVERN companies are being urged not to hide their light under a bushel but to shine forth - in the Malvern Hills District Council's annual Platinum Awards for Business Excellence.

Businesses within the district are being urged to promote their successes of the past year through the awards, which have continually grown in entry numbers since their inception four years ago.

They aim to celebrate the achievements of local businesses and take into consideration the wide range of positive aspects involved in running a company.

"The awards celebrate the diversity and quality which exists amongst firms in the area," said Adrian Field, Malvern Hills District Council's economic research and marketing officer.

He said all companies, large and small, were invited to enter.

"Achievements could have been made through innovative new products or diversification of a product range, new techniques, enhancements in service delivery, staff training or environmental improvements," said Mr Field.

He said past winners and applicants had found the event itself a great networking opportunity.

"They have generated large orders and Press coverage locally and regionally as a result. The benefits from entering can be really huge," he added.

Past winner Peter Earp, managing director of Malvern-based English Braids, challenged businesses to become involved.

"There are some very capable people out there who don't promote themselves," said Mr Earp.

"I challenge them to come forward because this is such a great opportunity for them to gain recognition."

Last year's Start-Up winner, Kevin Capper, who owns White Season Restaurant, in Malvern's Church Street, said it was an "ideal" award to increase a business's profile locally, and also create opportunities further afield."

The overall Platinum Award winner takes home a cheque for £1,000, sponsored by MHDC. There are also £500 cheques on offer for the winners of the competition's seven categories, which are manufacturing, retail, arts, tourism, service, start-up and technology.

The closing date for entries is Monday, February 11, with the awards ceremony due to take place on Thursday, March 21, at the Abbey Hotel, Malvern.

For more information phone Mr Field on 01684 862361 or email adrian.field@malvernhills.gov.uk