AN award ceremony dedicated to acknowledging the rising stars of the Tees Valley business world is celebrating its fifth anniversary.

The Best New Business Awards were set up in 2000 to identify, support and recognise business start-ups.

Last year's awards attracted 150 entries, and organisers are expecting a record number this time.

This year's event has eight categories, recognising excellence across every business sector. The categories are community, creative industries, environmental, manufacturing, marketing, retail, service and young entrepreneur, as well as the overall award for the business that has displayed outstanding potential.

Business Link chief executive Malcolm Taylor said: "The awards are an excellent way of profiling the high standard of local talent and the importance of start-up businesses to the local economy."

To enter, call Colin Brown on (01642) 862177.