COMPANIES across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are being urged to "go for gold" as the deadline for the Queen's Awards for Enterprise 2002 approaches.

Already requests have been received from almost 100 businesses in the two counties for details about the awards.

They recognise remarkable achievements in international trade, innovation and sustainable development.

"These prestigious awards are an extremely valuable marketing and business tool for companies with just two employees up to multi-nationals," said Alan Johnson, the Department for Trade and Industry Minister responsible for the regions.

"Winning an award gives both employers and employees a tremendous boost and a sense of pride that all their hard work has been rewarded," said Mr Johnson.

He said applications had already been received from "talented" companies in the West Midlands.

"But I know there are many more worthy of joining previous winners ranging from large, internationally-recognised companies such as Land Rover to small, local companies," he said.

The closing date for entries is midnight on Wednesday, October 31, 2001. Phone 0990 134486 for an entry pack.