BACUP’S business ‘dragon’ Piers Linney is in the running for a top distinction in the first-ever Black British Business Awards, being held next month.

The 43-year-old co-chief executive of Manchester-based Outsourcery PLC has been selected in the ‘entrepreneur of the year’ category of the inaugural competition.

He will be facing the challenge of Michael Barrington-Hibbert, managing partner of his own talent acquisition and leadership development outfit, and Andrew Osayemi, managing director of comedy and drama specialist MTA Productions.

The Barbadian-born Dragons Den star, who moved to the UK with his mother aged nine, will find out if he is successful in a sold-out ceremony at London’s Grange City Hotel on October 2, attended by Business Secretary Vince Cable.

Sophie Chandauka, awards co-founde, said: “We have every expectation that the Black British Business Awards will forecast, with precision, important boardroom members of the future.

“Our rising stars are phenomenally gifted individuals who have defied the odds, particularly given the fiercely competitive environment following the global financial crisis.

“The awards will serve as an antidote to stereotypes on so many levels. We feel inspired to maintain this level of excellence for years to come.”

One of the judges, Sanjay Bhandari, added: “Improving the diversity of UK PLC transcends the responsibility of government, business and individuals.

“There is no quick fix or silver bullet, but role models undoubtedly have an important part to play. The awards are a fantastic opportunity to uncover hidden talent and shine the spotlight on the UK’s top business leaders.”