THE search is on for the fastest-growing com-panies in Swindon and the South West.

The Technology Fast 50 is compiled annually by business advisers Deloitte. Last year the South West had one of the country's highest levels of quick-growing companies, with a concentration in Silicon Gorge the area bounded by Swindon, Bristol and Gloucester.

Laurence Hedditch, Deloitte's technology partner for the South West, said: "The Technology Fast 50 is an industry benchmark from which local hi-tech companies can gauge their perform-ance against some of the world's most successful technology leaders.

"In a climate where technology companies are cautiously optimistic about prospects for sales growth, this year's event will provide a real insight into the shape and health of the sector."

Any company which had a turnover of more than 50,000 euros in 1999 can take part. For a nomination pack, contact Vicki Cheadle at Deloitte on 0117 984 2861 or on-line at www.fast50.co.uk