TIME is ticking away to get entry forms into the biggest award ceremony in Wiltshire's business calendar.

The awards night to be held at the De Vere Hotel at Shaw Ridge on February 25 next year has become known as one of the glitziest in the calendar, with the cream of Wiltshire's companies taking part.

And businesses have less than four weeks to get their application forms in to take part in this year's exciting competition.

The categories include small business of the year, the NatWest award for innovation and growth, engineering and industrial design, entrepreneur of the year, and training and development.

There are categories for outstanding service to the community, best business culture and outstanding excellence.

The deadline for registering is November 26, and then judging will commence.

A cocktail party will be held on December 13 at the De Vere, and then the countdown is on for the gala dinner.

The awards organiser and senior business representative from Wiltshire Business magazine at Newsquest Wiltshire Clare Hamilton-Eddy said: "After the success of last year's awards, we are determined to put on an even more memorable event that will highlight and reward the cream of the county's top businesses.

"There has already been a considerable amount of interest in the 2004 awards.

"I would urge any business or individual to enter if they wish to increase their company profile in the local community or just have something good to shout about. It's a great night too."

See today's Wiltshire Business magazine inside the Advertiser for more details on the awards and the companies helping it go with a bang.