NOMINATIONS are now open for the annual Made in Bury Business Awards - and the competition is expected to be intense.

Companies have faced one of the most challenging times in living memory - but a number have diversified or shown their community spirit in helping the wider community.

And so judges for the MIBBAs - now in their eighth year, will have a tough job picking winners across a host of categories.

A Made in Bury spokesman said: "The awards are brought to you in partnership with Bury Council and thebestofbury and sponsored by many other fantastic local businesses.

"The MIBBAs are all about celebrating the achievements of our local businesses, and their contributions, which help to make Bury a fantastic place to both live and work.

"We can’t wait to see the range of talented businesses and business individuals who will be entering this year."

Nineteen different prizes will be up for grabs, alongside two individual awards.

The spokesman added: "Our judging panel is made up of a wonderful selection of high-profile local businessmen and women, with years of experience in their industries and a deep-rooted community spirit, we can’t think of better individuals to judge our awards.

"Entry into the awards is completely free of charge, no matter the size of your business or what sector you operate in. Even better your business can be entered into as many categories as you wish."

The deadline date for entries this year is August 30, after which all entries will be whittled down to our finalists of just three per category by the judges.

Each finalist will then be invited to a glamorous black-tie ball on November 26 at The Longfield Suite in Prestwich, is always a special night and a celebration of our borough’s diverse and incredible business community. If you would like to receive more information about the awards, contact Debi Fellone via e-mail at debi@madeinbury.co.uk