**Entry to the Burton Mail Business Awards is free; entry form can be downloaded here **

Entries are already flying in for the Burton Mail Business Awards 2017 – but firms across East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire still have plenty of time to get involved.

Firms of all shapes and sizes from across the area have already been sending in nominations as they look to battle it out to win one of the 11 awards on offer, including the coveted Business of the Year title.

This year will see the eightth incarnation of the popular event in the business calendar and companies are being urged to make sure they are part of it.

Burton Mail editor Emma Turton said: “Yet again we have been blown away by the high level of interest in the Burton Mail Business Awards.

“We have had a range of applications from across a broad spectrum of interest that showcases just what we have to offer when it comes to the business world.

“But, for those who have not yet entered, there is still plenty of time to take a look at the categories and enter as many as they like.

Bright Side Vets in Swadlincote at the Burton Mail Business Awards

“The process could not be simpler. Head online to www.burtonmail.co.uk/businessawards2017 and use the simple application form. That is all it takes to be in with a chance to win big and be part of the gala awards event later this year.”

The winners will be announced at a glittering gala awards ceremony on Thursday, October 19, which will again be held at Burton Albion's Pirelli Stadium.

Chameleon School of Construction win an award

There are several categories in the Business Awards that are aimed at individuals including the Young Employee of the Year award and Employee of the Year award.

This year also sees the introduction of two new awards – Medium Business of the Year (21-100 FTEs) and the Leisure and Hospitality Award, which incorporates everything from retail to restaurants.

Firms have until September 8 to enter and can enter as many categories as they wish.

Event director Dave Bryon aid: “Every single year we are overwhelmed by the level of applications we have in from across East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire.

“We urge firms of all shapes and sizes to enter one or more of the categories to be in with a chance of winning big come the awards night.”

You can enter your business HERE

The categories in this year's Burton Mail Business Awards