JUDGING has begun for this year’s Lancashire Telegraph Business Awards – with our expert panel sifting through the highest number of entries ever.

The 11 categories attracted 125 applications, with companies ranging from the very smallest to those with more than 1,000 employees.

Judging panels include sponsors BAE Systems, the North West Development Agency, Hyndburn Enterprise Trust, Blackburn with Darwen Council and WEC Group, the winner of last year’s Business of the Year category.