THE search is on for Worcestershire's hi-tech, high-fliers with companies invited to enter the Deloitte & Touche Technology Fast 50 awards.

The scheme identifies the 50 fastest-growing technology companies in the Midlands.

The growth-rates of these companies are then compared with the top 50 companies in six other regions, resulting in a ranking of the fastest expanding companies in Britain.

"Being ranked in the Fast 50 allows companies to benchmark themselves against their peers and helps investors to pinpoint the technology stars of the future," said Deloitte & Touche senior partner Jane Lodge.

"The Technology Fast 50 focuses on the solid technology companies that will outlive many of the 'one click wonders' of the on-line world.

"It is these companies that are more attractive to venture capitalists and most likely to thrive alongside the established businesses."

She urged businesses to take up the challenge and beat last year's finalists, which averaged a growth rate of 1,305 per cent.

And she praised firms for using their old strengths to meet the demands of the new economy.

"Many of the Midlands' technology companies reflect the region's manufacturing roots," said Ms Lodge.

"A number of them develop technology for industrial clients or have a manufacturing aspect to their business. This demonstrates how the region is adapting."

Midlands winners will be named on Thursday, March 1 at the National Motorcycle Museum, near Birmingham.

Entries can be lodged with miriam.sherwood@deloitte.co.uk or at www.fast50.co.uk.