THE AWARDS recognising successful businesses across the Test Valley has begun after launching on Friday.

From 2pm on Friday, following the launch event in Stockbridge, entries are open for the 2018 Test Valley Business Awards.

In its 14th year, six categories are open for entries, with the awards run entirely by volunteers.

Those range from the Innovation and Technology Award to the New Business of the Year Award, which is sponsored by Test Valley Borough Council.

The innovation award is open to any business which is achieving business success through the innovative application of new ideas, technology or practices.

The award is sponsored by the University of Southampton Science Park.

Paul Birkett, CEO of the Science Park said: "Our region is a hotbed of talent, innovation and entrepreneurship: I witness this here at the Science Park daily across all areas of commerce and industry.

"That's why awards such as these are extremely important in bringing these companies into the limelight; to champion small, regionally-based business. I, for one, can't wait to see who will enter this year because I know that being recognised in this way is a springboard to further success."

The awards are free to enter online, with the nomination period ending at midnight on May 11.

During the entry period, several entrants will also be selected at random to receive a prize including alcohol and other goods from Test Valley.

The categories for the awards are:

Innovation and Technology

New Business of the Year

Doing Business Locally

Small Business of the Year

Employer of the Year

Businesswoman of the Year.

Entrants can register for one of the categories by visiting www.tvbawards.org.uk.