THE Westmorland Gazette has launched its 2012 Business and Tourism Awards, one of the premier events in the North West business calendar.

Last year more than 120 companies from South Lakeland, Eden, Furness, North Lancashire and North Yorkshire entered the prestigious awards – all keen to be recognised for their entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen.

And this year promises to be an even bigger event as firms aim to step into the spotlight and show off exactly what makes them leaders in the local business community.

This year 11 companies will be named as winners of categories ranging from Team of the Year, Hotel of the Year, Social and Community Development and the Green Business Award.

And one firm will gain the ultimate recognition by gaining the top prize and being named Westmorland Gazette Business of the Year.

Winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony to be held at the Castle Green Hotel at Kendal on Friday, September 14.

Last year’s Business of the Year was energy efficient lighting specialist Marl International, based at Ulverston, which beat off competition from companies across three counties – and the company has already thrown its weight behind this year’s awards.

Marketing manager Arianna Rawlinson said: “Here at Marl International, we were absolutely delighted to be awarded with the prestigious award, Business of the Year 2011. “We would highly recommend any local business to enter The Westmorland Gazette Business and Tourism awards – no matter how large or small you are!”

The awards were also welcomed by Derek Armstrong, manager of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, who said: “It is a great opportunity for local businesses within The Westmorland Gazette’s circulation area to highlight their achievements during this difficult eco-nomic period. I know previous winners have benefited from the exposure and publicity the awards have generated.

“I would urge any business to check out the categories and enter before the closing date of July 30.

“It is great to see the local newspaper promoting and supporting local business.”

Sponsors this year include Furness College, the Furness Building Society and accountancy firm Lamont Pridmore.

The Westmorland Gazette Business and Tourism Awards could make a huge difference to your enterprise. It costs nothing to put your business forward but you must get your entries in by the closing date of Monday, July 30.