THE deadline for entries to the Parcelforce Worldwide Small Business Awards has been extended.

To qualify for entry, a company must be independently owned and UK-based. It must employ 30 people or less, have an annual turnover of more than £60,000 and have been established no later than March 31, 2003.

The winner of the North-East contest will take home £2,000 and go through to the national finals.

The overall winner will receive prizes worth £25,000. There are also smaller awards for exporter of the year; young entrepreneur of the year; customer service; mailshots and business loyalty.

Last year, more than 250 of the region's firms took part.

The deadline for entries is June 17.

For further details, visit the website, www.thesba.co.uk