PREPARATIONS for the 8th Teesdale Business Awards are underway and organisers are looking for sponsors.

The awards ceremony will take place at The Witham, in Barnard Castle on February 12, next year.

Organised by Enterprise House, also in Barnard Castle, Teesdale Business Awards offer an opportunity to showcase and promote local businesses.

There are 12 categories, as in previous years, apprentice of the year, entrepreneur of the year, social responsibility, best community engagement project and best social enterprise.

There will also be awards for best customer focus, most innovative business, best marketing initiative, best business trading outside Teesdale and growth business of the year.

The final two awards will be for the best business and the best new business.

Enterprise House is now looking for 12 sponsors to support the awards.

Sponsors will make a financial contribution towards the running costs and will be actively involved in judging, shortlisting and selecting the winners.

Sponsors are also required to attend the awards ceremony to present the trophies.

For information visit: teesdalebusinessawards.co.uk

Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor is asked to contact Lynn Todhunter or Emma King on 01833-696750 or info@e-house.co.uk