LAST year the Taunton Deane Business Awards were a roaring success setting the bar high for this year, said one of the organisers, Pam Knight from White Knight Marketing.

With more than 70 entrants last year and with feedback from the many businesses that entered, the organisers have decided to introduce new categories.

This year there will be ten in all: Digital Innovator, Customer Excellence, Exporter of the Year, Growth Business (growth over two years), Best Employer, Best Marketing Campaign, Corporate Social Responsibility, Start Up (up to two years), Young Entrepreneur of the Year (25 or under) and Creative Industries Award.

Joint main sponsor Martin Lock, senior partner of PKF Francis Clark, said: “We are delighted to be a main sponsor of the Taunton Deane Business Awards 2017. As a firm we are passionate about helping businesses grow and develop, and the awards recognise the great entrepreneurial and inspiring businesses we have here in Taunton Deane, providing a fantastic platform for them to showcase their success.

“Having been involved in the awards since their inception, we have seen them develop into the must-apply event that they are today and we very much look forward to highlighting and celebrating more businesses in 2017.”

Partnering sponsor David Evans, business development manager for the council, said: “Taunton Deane Borough Council is proud to be one of the main sponsors of the 2017 Taunton Deane Business Awards.

“Business is thriving in Taunton Deane and the awards represent a perfect opportunity to celebrate the many successes we have locally. From start-ups to Plcs, and from High Street to online, I wish every entrant success in this year’s competition.”

The awards are open to anyone based in the Taunton Deane area and who wants to share their success stories and celebrate their business.

Entries are open now online at www.tdba.co.uk and will close on the March 31 at 5pm.