SUCCESSFUL businesses and individuals in the region will be honoured once more as Lowestoft and Waveney Chamber of Commerce launches its Business Awards 2009.

SUCCESSFUL businesses and individuals in the region will be honoured once more as Lowestoft and Waveney Chamber of Commerce launches its Business Awards 2009.

After the great success of last year's inaugural event, the chamber is this year asking for nominations in 12 categories.

And this time there will be two winners in each category, catering for those employing fewer than 10 people as well as larger companies.

The awards are designed to recognise and reward business success in the region. The aim is to give something back to those successful companies which, by helping themselves, are helping the growth of the local business community.

Nominations are open until Wednesday, September 24. To apply, your entries must include a maximum 200-word piece on the background of the company and maximum 500- word piece on why the business should be considered for the category entered, taking into account the criteria specified.

Businesses can enter as many categories as they like. Judging for the prizes will be conducted independently by the award sponsors.

Awards will be presented at a ceremony at Potters Leisure Resort's new hospitality suite, Zest, at Hopton on Thursday, November 26.

Linda Thornton, chief officer of the chamber, said: 'It is going to be something people round here have never seen or been to before.'

For details of how to enter visit the website www.waveneychamber.co.uk/business_awards/vote/