The third annual hunt for the British Small Business Champion is about to kick-off, beginning with a quest for a champion business based in the South West.

Entries are invited from all well-run small businesses in the region that have been operating for at least five years, employ fewer than 50 people and offer excellent customer service.

The winner will then go forward to represent the southern region in the 2004 national final and compete for a tailor-made business trip to New York.

The competition sees Lloyds TSB, the Federation of Small Business, the Trinity Mirror Group and Business in the Community (BiTC) joining forces to search out successful small businesses from six regions across the UK.

The shortlisted regional winners will then attend a prestigious ceremony at Claridges in London on November 10, where the national British Small Business Champion title will be awarded.

Entry forms can be obtained by calling 01296 426813, faxing 01296 423851, writing to BSBC, 80 Friarscroft Way, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 2TF, or emailing businessawards@fsb.org.uk. Closing date is May 14.

Alternatively, apply online at www.fsb.org.uk/general/bsbc

The closing date for applications is Friday, May 14.

Stephen Pegge, head of external communications, Lloyds TSB Business, said: "Small firms play a vital, but often unrecognised, role in the local and national economy, providing employment to millions, as well as being a 'hothouse' for innovative ideas.

"These awards provide much needed recognition for the brightest stars in small business."

John Emmins, national chairman of the Federation of Small Business, added: "This sends out a clear message that SMEs want, and value, genuine recognition of their achievements and the invaluable contribution they make to their customers, employees and communities across the UK."