TODAY the Lancashire Telegraph launches our annual business awards.

The awards are a celebration of East Lancashire’s successful and innovative firms and the talented individuals who work for them.

Our area is blessed with a host of top class firms, some of which are world leaders in their field.

There are also a number of small businesses who are successfully establishing themselves in the market place.

The business awards are recognised as the most prestigious event in the calendar.

They are the perfect opportunity for firms to showcase the excellent work they have done.

Businesses have faced a torrid time over the last 12 months with the most difficult trading conditions seen in decades.

That is why they have more reason than ever to celebrate their successes.

It is also the reason we have included a new award named after our We’re Backing Business campaign.

This aims to recognise the companies which have overcome adversity to triumph despite the recession and credit crunch.

With all the recent job losses, it is easy for people to think that it is all doom and gloom in the business community.

But through hard work and by adapting, firms in East Lancashire are continuing to flourish.

We want to celebrate their achievements and look forward to receiving their entry forms.