PREPARATIONS are already underway to showcase many of Tendring's best businesses for a second year in a row.

Tendring Blue Ribbon awards was staged for the first time last year and saw more than 300 representatives from firms across the district attend.

Organisers Jamesons Accountants, Barclays Bank and Tendring Council are now preparing for this year's awards which will be held at the Princes Theatres on October 5.

Christine Brown from Jamesons said the aim is to make it even bigger and better this time around.

She said: “It is fantastic that the winners of the awards last year have come forward to sponsor all the categories they appeared in last year – and that shows tremendous backing.

“We have also added three new categories; innovation in design and technology, health and social care, and team of the year.

“We are looking to cover every possible field to ensure that no one is left out and we receive as many nominations as possible.”

Sponsors have already been lined-up for the three new catagories, however there are still sponsorship opportunities available.

Sadie Moore from Barclays said the idea is to make the awards an annual event.

She said: “We were really pleased with the inaugural awards evening and we are already getting excited about the programme for October,” she added.

“The interest has been amazing and it shows that this event has been warmly received by businesses who want to be involved with it. It can only be good for Tendring and we want to grow the event year on year.”

This year profits will be donated to the charities, Help Alexia Walk and Stanley's Heroes.

Giles Watling, Tendring Council's regeneration boss, said: “We have a great team behind this event and there is so much to celebrate about our business community in Tendring.

“It is all about showcasing success and encouraging excellence, entrepreneurship and growth.

"We are looking for nominations from start-up businesses as well and established companies operating in our district."

For more information on the remaining sponsorship opportunities contact Christine Brown on 01255 220044 or email Christine@tendringblueribbon.org.