BUSINESSES across Keighley and Airedale are being urged to enter a prestigious awards scheme.

Accolades are up for grabs across ten categories and there is a coveted, overall Business of the Year honour.

The annual Keighley & Airedale Business Awards have gone from strength to strength since they were launched five years ago.

The not-for-profit event is organised by the business community itself, and those who support it.

Last year, the Lord Mayor of Bradford – Keighley councillor Abid Hussain – invited all the winners to a civic reception at City Hall in Bradford.

Categories this year cover new, micro and SME businesses, independent retailer, manufacturing/engineering, apprentice/trainee, financial legal services, food and drink, media business and business personality of the year.

The glittering awards ceremony – hosted by journalist and TV presenter Harry Gration – will take place at Victoria Hall, Keighley, on Friday, June 29.

Steve Burles, co-chairman of the organising committee, said: "We know from the last five years that there are fantastic businesses in our area.

"We are looking forward to yet more evidence of that this year."

Fellow chairman Howard Martin added: "Many of our winners say they never realised what entering might lead to.

"Please take the plunge, enter and participate in an event to be proud of."

Entry is free. Visit keighleyairedalebusinessawards.co.uk for more details.

Closing date for applications is March 23.