Manufacturers across Cornwall are being invited to enter the annual manufacturing awards, to champion their achievements.

Organised by the Cornwall Manufacturers Group (CMG), the awards celebrate the outstanding contribution apprentices, innovators, sustainable practices as well as business leaders and exporters have had on the industry.

Nine categories offer a wide range of application opportunities and don’t just simply recognise success but are a great opportunity for organisations to shine a spotlight on their people, their achievements and their best business practices.

Eric Nicholls, chair of the CMG and managing director of Spiral UK Ltd, said: “The awards are an opportunity for Cornwall’s thriving manufacturers to showcase this dynamic and progressive sector. There are a number of quiet and yet influential businesses across the county, delivering an explosive economic contribution to the local and wider economy, and this is their chance to have a louder voice.

“Manufacturing accounts for ten per cent of Cornwall’s GVA, the importance and value of the sector cannot be underestimated and these awards give this £732m local industry an opportunity to be rewarded and recognised.”

James Standley, of last year’s Small Manufacturer of the Year winner, Kensa Heat Pumps, said: “The award application process is beneficial for all engineering businesses to discover where they need to improve. It encourages you to take a step back from the day to day running of the business to review past, present and future activities.

"Winning last year has given us more than just recognition; it has driven new business, rewarded everyone for their hard work and created a new energy for our aspirations for the future.”

The awards, backed by a range of sponsors, are free-to-enter and open to all manufacturing organisations, large and small, in Cornwall. Judged by independent industry experts, winners of each category automatically go on to represent the county at the regional EEF awards - the UK’s manufacturing and engineering body.

The awards will be held in November and deadline for entries is August 19. For more information and online registration, visit cmgroup.org.uk.