Small community-based businesses will be given the opportunity to be crowned champion of their town or the whole of North Yorkshire in 2021 following the launch of an exciting awards programme.

The Town & County Business Champions 2021 awards have been launched to highlight the achievements of the UK’s very best micro and small businesses who are keeping community spirit alive in their local area.

The awards are aimed at any businesses with up to 50 employees, including hairdressers, cafes, accountants, solicitors and graphic designers.

Awards director Damian Cummins said: “This year, more than ever, we have learned to appreciate our local independent businesses. From the local corner shop to barbers, pubs and cafes.

“Lots of these small businesses are put off by business awards as they feel they are too small to compete. We wanted to create an awards ceremony that recognised and celebrated the very best of local businesses, from the High Streets to those hidden away in the nooks and crannies of towns and villages.

“The North Yorkshire Business Champions are all about the story. We want to know why you are the best in your area and how you support the local community. From being the latest craze or ‘go to’ restaurant in your town, to the family business that’s been going quietly for generations.

“These are truly local, transparent awards, celebrating local success stories and are incredibly easy to enter. Just reaching the finals alone will help companies to successfully market their business and thrive.”

The awards are now open and will culminate with five regional finals in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Northern England and Southern England.

The regional finals will produce champions at both town and county levels and businesses will only be in competition with other firms from their area.

For more information, or to enter the awards, visit www.townandcountybusinesschampions.co.uk or www.tcbchamps.co.uk