Outstanding individual and group achievements will take centre stage once more as a glittering awards ceremony returns.

Businesses from across the East Suffolk area will be honoured as the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft and Waveney Business Awards 2023 are held at a gala event later this year.

Highlighting the talent, excellence and inspiration that shines in East Suffolk, the awards are designed to recognise and reward business success in the district.

Entries opened at a launch event last Thursday, August 3, as more than 100 business representatives attended the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft and Waveney summer networking event sponsored by Ivy House Country Hotel in Lowestoft.

Delegates enjoyed a welcome drink and street food while networking.

With the awards celebrating and showcasing the expertise and achievements that local businesses and individuals make to Lowestoft and Waveney, it allows businesses to enter or it is possible to nominate another business or individual that deserves recognition.

There are 16 award categories to enter in - including Best Small Business of the Year, Local Charity of the Year, Business of the Year or Recognition of Lifetime Achievement - and this year a special award will also be presented.

A chamber spokesman said: "The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce this year is celebrating 100 years of chamber activity and support in Lowestoft and Waveney and to commemorate this achievement they will be awarding for this year only a local business the Longstanding Business Award."

Awards headline sponsors Radical Waste - based in Beccles - will be awarding the prestigious Business of the Year award at the celebratory gala evening in three months time.

This, and all award winners, will be announced at the prestigious ceremony being held at Ivy Hall, Ivy House Country Hotel, Lowestoft on Thursday, November 9.

With the closing date for entries September 29, for further details and how to enter visit the Chamber website at www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/east-suffolk/lowestoft-waveney-business-awards.