Businesses pick up winning tips
MORE than 40 businesses gathered at Mottram Hall in Prestbury to pick up tips on how to enter and win at the North East Cheshire Business Awards 2016.
There are 11 categories open to the region’s businesses, with the addition of Apprentice of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year.
A Charity of the Year category is also being added and the winner will be taken forward as the Awards’ own charity partner in 2017.
Entries are welcome from all businesses, regardless of size, across Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Knutsford and surrounding areas.
Sue Bowden, from Macclesfield Chamber of Commerce, the lead organiser of the event, said: “It was great to see so many out on such a sunny evening to support the awards and hear from judges what they need to focus on in their entries to give them the best chance of winning. We would encourage any business in the area with a great story to tell to get involved and enter.”
Michael Lavizani, who hosted the event, said: “We are delighted to be supporting this event and are fine-tuning our own entry as we speak!
“The NE Cheshire Business Awards is a great initiative to showcase excellence across many areas and we look forward to seeing everyone at the gala dinner in November.”
Awards judge Melissa Bowers from accountancy firm Harts Limited also gave some handy tips for entrants.
She said: “It sounds obvious but please think about the category you are entering and focus your entry on why you deserve to win that particular award.
“Sometimes as you write about success, it’s easy to veer off track. Instead, keep reminding us why you are the perfect winner against the specific category criteria. And don’t limit yourselves to just one entry – enter as many categories as you think fit your business.”
This year’s Charity Partner is the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, which provides free holidays for disadvantaged children.
Sponsors and partners for this year’s Awards include NatWest Bank, Orbit Developments, SAS Daniels, Harts, Macclesfield College, RA Smart, Leonard Curtis, Williams & Crosby, Macclesfield Express, Macclesfield Chamber of Commerce, Cheshire Silk 106.9, Cheshire East Council, Souter PR, Print-It and Blogyourworld.
There are a few opportunities still available for businesses interested in sponsorship packages. For further information, please contact Sue at Macclesfield Chamber on 01625 665940 or email info@macclesfield chamber.co.uk.