An urgent call is going out to all companies in the county to submit their entries for the Cornwall Business Awards - before it's too late.

The deadline for nominations is Wednesday February 28 and, as explained by John Berry, managing director of Cornwall Enterprise, a few minutes spent completing an entry form can give a huge boost to the companies concerned.

Mr Berry said: "The winners of the inaugural Awards last year have gained a lot of valuable positive exposure in their respective marketplaces and a higher status within their communities. But more than that, the Awards have given their employees a sense of pride and achievement which must have a tremendously beneficial effect on their businesses."

Locally, the Camborne Chamber of Commerce is hoping for a strong representation from its area in the 2007 Awards. George Le Hunte, chairman, said: "The Cornwall Business Awards started in 2006 with great success for businesses of all types and size. This year, let's see many more applications from Camborne businesses to put our town on the map.'' Presented by Cornwall Enterprise, in partnership with Business Link, the Awards are supported by key sponsors Stephens and Scown and Robinson Reed Layton. Any company with its main office in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly is eligible to apply.

Speaking on behalf of leading regional law firm Stephens and Scown, Michael Beadel reinforced the message of urgency, he said: "There are just a few days left before the deadline, and we'd really like to see many more companies grasping the opportunity to be part of this great showcase for business talent, so why not have a go?"

For accountancy firm Robinson Reed Layton, Graham Boulton stressed again that the Awards are open to all, he said: "Whether your company is large or small, old or new, and whatever product or service you are marketing, there is an Award that could have your name on it. There are 12 Award categories to choose from, and we expect the nominees and winners to reflect the remarkable diversity of successful businesses in this part of the world."

Entry forms and full details of the judging criteria are available online at www.cornnwallbusinessawards.co.uk.

The judging panel will be a veritable who's who' of high-profile business figures, including Eden Project Chief Executive Tim Smit; former Bank of England governor Lord George; CEO of BBC Worldwide John Smith; and Chairman of Johnson Matthey PLC - and formerly Chair of Whitbread - Sir John Banham.

The Awards will be presented in a glittering ceremony at St Mellion Hotel and Country Club on Thursday May 17.