TIME is running out for fledgling companies across the region to enter the Local Business Accelerators competition, which has a prize package worth tens of thousands of pounds.

Successful applicants will be rewarded with top professional advice from local business mentors, an allocation of free advertising space in The Northern Echo and the chance to win a six-month rent-free tenancy in one of Middlesbrough Council's Enterprise Centre buildings.

One lucky winner from the scheme, which is being run nationally, will receive bespoke business advice from Dragons' Den star, Deborah Meaden. Businesses between one and three years old can apply.

Submit your entry at the website www.accelerateme.co.uk before midnight on Monday.