SENIOR envoys of the UK's top business awards were in the region yesterday to encourage more companies to put their names forward for the accolade.

The representatives of The Queen's Awards for Enterprise were joined by recent award winning companies from the region to explain how to enter the awards and to outline the benefits that result from success.

Stephen Brice, acting secretary of The Queen's Awards office, was accompanied on the visit by David Moore, secretary to the Prime Minister's advisory committee for Queen's Awards.

He said: "There are 16 companies in the North-East which currently hold a Queen's Award, including four that were honoured this year. But we are convinced many more from the region could be successful if they would put their names forward, and we hope our visit will convince directors that it is worthwhile to do so."

Mr Brice and Mr Moore addressed a business audience at a breakfast meeting at Durham County Cricket Club, in Chester-le-Street.

They then visited Immunodiagnostic Systems of Boldon Business Park, South Tyneside, which won a Queen's Award in 1999.

Companies can enter for a Queen's Award in one or more of three categories - international trade, innovation and sustainable development.

Mr Brice said: "The Queen's Awards are the most prestigious awards open to British business, equivalent to the honours awarded to individuals in the New Year and Birthday Honours. They are recognised at home and abroad as the UK's top awards for business performance."

An award, once granted, is held for five years from the date of its announcement.

Entries for the 2004 Awards close on midnight, October 31, and the winners will be announced, as they have been every year since 1966, on the Queen's personal birthday on April 21.

Companies interested in registering should call (0207) 222 2277 for more information.