Companies big and small have only one week left to enter the Sid Valley Business Awards 2018.

Sidmouth Herald: Ford Simey's Sarah Tregale and David Wheaton, who is also the Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce chairmanFord Simey's Sarah Tregale and David Wheaton, who is also the Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce chairman (Image: Archant)

Businesses are invited to put themselves in the spotlight by nominating themselves in one of nine categories before the deadline on Friday, October 20.

The three finalists in each category will be announced in the Herald on Friday, November 17, and be allocated tickets to the awards ceremony at the Victoria Hotel on Saturday, January 6.

A panel of judges will decide the winner in each category and an overall winner from all 27 finalists – decided by a public poll – will be named ‘Sid Valley Business of the Year’.

Award categories include shops with more or fewer than five employees, sole traders, lifestyle companies and professional and trade services.

There are also three categories for pubs, restaurants and bars; tea rooms, coffee shops and tourist stops; and hotels, guests houses and B&Bs.

Ford Simey is sponsoring the professional service category.

The firm’s Sarah Tregale said: “Sidmouth businesses operate in a thriving and friendly environment and we welcome applications from accountants, financial advisors, estate agents, letting agents, solicitors, architects and any other professional services.

“We are keen to encourage business and commerce in the town, and the awards are an ideal way of doing this.”

The Herald is sponsoring the Sid Valley Business of the Year award, to be decided by an online poll.

Group editor Andy Keeble said: “This is a great chance for local businesses to shout about what they do – and a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate their contribution to life in the Sid Valley.”

Awards organiser Andy Downham said: “The awards have trickled in but we’re expecting a last-minute rush. One category hasn’t had a single entry, so don’t assume you won’t be in with a chance of winning.

“There’s still time for businesses large and small to enter.”

To enter your business, collect an application form from Paragon Books, Potbury’s Funeral Service or Sidmouth Print in Sidmouth or The Rising Sun in Sidford.

For more details, visit www.sidmouthchamber.co.uk or email svba@sidmouthchamber.co.uk.