IT’S time to start celebrating business success!

Local companies have been working hard to forge ahead during some of the toughest economic times anyone can remember.

Many of them have overcome huge economic difficulties to win new orders, boost sales and invest in training, plant and machinery.

They have achieved exporting success, created jobs and developed new products and services.

Now it’s time once again to reward the cream of the crop and recognise the skills, innovation and enterprise that provide the recipe for any successful business.

The Examiner Business Awards 2011 aim to so just that.

The Examiner has been joined once again by long-standing event sponsor Chadwick Lawrence in the search to find those outstanding businesses and individuals who make a major contribution to the local economy.

The competition will culminate in a glittering awards night at the Galpharm Stadium when senior figures from the local business community will join category finalists, sponsors, their guests and the awards judges in the celebrations.

Entries are now invited for 12 categories – New Business of the Year, SME of the Year, Business of the Year, Community Award, Green Award, International Business of the Year, Innovation Award, Employer of the Year, Young Business Person of the Year, Business Person of the Year, the Make it Huddersfield Award and the Judges’ Choice Award.

A panel of judges will choose the category winners, who will be receive trophies and certificates at the spectacular awards night on Thursday, November 3, at the Galpharm Stadium.

BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration will again host the gala event, which will also feature a celebrity speaker.

Jeremy Garside, managing partner of Chadwick Lawrence, urged local companies to take part in the town’s premier business awards – and demonstrate their talents and achievements.

He said: “The awards have proved that the Kirklees area is thriving, which is why we are determined to continue to promote and support business success in the area.

“It is important to recognise the achievements of local businesses and their proprietors.

“For that reason Chadwick Lawrence is proud to be supporting the awards once again in 2011.”

Examiner editor Roy Wright added: “The Examiner Business Awards, in association with Chadwick Lawrence, provide an opportunity to recognise the achievements of firms and individuals making a major contribution to their organisations and the town – often in the face of difficult trading conditions.”

And he urged businesses: “I hope you will help underline the town’s reputation for enterprise by taking part in this year's awards.”

The Examiner Business Awards are open to all companies with a business address in the Examiner’s circulation area. A map of the circulation area is on the entry form.

To enter, simply choose the category or categories most suitable for your business achievements, complete the entry form and return it with a supporting statement about your specific achievement.

Download an entry form at www.examinerbusinessawards.co.uk

Alternatively, you can call 01484 437702 or get a copy of the form by email businessawards@examiner.co.uk.

The deadline for entries in Friday, September 9.

To reserve seats at the gala dinner and awards presentation call 01484 437702.

The panel of judges will review all entries against the specific category criteria as well as turnover, growth, profitability, job creation, future potential, entrepreneurship and other factors outlined in your supporting statement.

Said Mr Wright: “The 2011 awards promise to be bigger and better than ever.

“So don’t miss your chance to make a mark with staff, customers and suppliers by entering the awards. Let’s show that Huddersfield businesses are the best!”