ORGANISERS of the first Derby Telegraph Business Awards have reported an "overwhelming" response to a call for entries after receiving more than 200 applications.
Since the deadline for nominations passed a week ago, Champions (UK) plc, which is organising the awards in conjunction with the paper, has been counting up the entries for the 13 categories.
The aim of the Derby Telegraph Business Awards is to recognise, reward and celebrate the achievements of companies across Derbyshire.
Prizes will be awarded in categories as diverse as Contribution to the Community, International Trade, Not-for-Profit and New Business.
Perhaps the most coveted title is Derby Company of the Year.
As well as attracting a high number of entries, the awards have also attracted an enviable line-up of big-name sponsors.
Now the deadline for entries has passed, the sponsors face the task of sifting through every application and settling upon a shortlist of three for each of their respective categories.
Once those finalists have been decided, they will meet their category sponsor at a champagne and canape evening at the Finesse Collection's Cathedral Quarter Hotel on May 22. The awards ceremony itself takes place on June 18 at Derby College's Roundhouse, at Pride Park.
Matthew Hayes, managing director of Champions (UK) plc, said: "Following the difficulties local businesses have experienced in recent years, it is very encouraging to know that so many Derbyshire firms are viewed in such a positive light.
"Given this is the first year the awards will have been staged, we had no way of predicting the number of nominations.
"Looking at the final figures, we were all absolutely astonished. The ceremony itself now looks set to be a roaring success."
The judging period covers the three weeks preceding the champagne and canape evening, giving sponsors time to get to know the entrants and find out as much as possible about their operations before making their final decisions between then and the big night.
Mr Hayes said: "With the economy having now turned a corner, we can be confident local employers and the local workforce will move forward together as one to build mutual prosperity anew.
"The Derby Telegraph Business Awards will be a fitting occasion for us to celebrate that dynamic."
Neil White, editor of the Derby Telegraph, said: "I'm delighted by the breadth and quality of entries. I'm looking forward to the awards ceremony being a truly memorable evening."
