PEOPLE who have triumphed against the odds to set up their own business in the south west are to be recognised in a government-backed awards scheme.

The Trading Places awards recognise unemployed people who have overcome barriers to transform their lives by setting up a business.

Minister for Work Jane Kennedy launched the awards under the New Deal programme with Business link and the Prince's Trust, who, between them, manage to help more than 200,000 new businesses a year.

Ms Kennedy said: "Trading Places celebrates small traders - the unsung business heroes whose achievements are so often eclipsed by the big wheels of industry.

"The awards acknowledge the entrepreneurial spirit of those who are brave enough to set up their own businesses from scratch, providing jobs not only for themselves but eventually for others."

Entry forms are available by calling 0870 902 3333 and the closing date for entries is September 3.

The judges will select 12 national finalists, each of whom will receive £1,000.

They will be invited to a lunch on November 16 at which the £7,000 winner will be announced.