TIME is running out for young Dorset entrepreneurs to win £10,000 by entering the Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur Awards 2004.

The competition helps young people develop new businesses by offering cash prizes, free advertising and selling opportunities as well as pointing them in the direction of sources of funding and providing advice on all aspects of business.

Now in its 21st year, Shell LiveWIRE is inviting young people aged between 16 and 30 to enter this year's awards.

The closing date is 31 January 2004.

Val Moore, co-ordinator of LiveWIRE in Dorset, said: "The deadline is fast approaching for those who wish to follow in the footsteps of last year's winner Jodie Welton, whose personal concierge service, Hour25 Ltd, has gone from strength to strength.

"We are extremely encouraged by the level of interest so far and are looking forward to receiving many more high-calibre entries this month.

"To be successful in this competition and ultimately in business, entrants need to display enthusiasm, determination and immense self-motivation, and that all-important spark of fun, because that is what running your own business should be."

As part of its role to provide the county's business people with access to affordable business information and advice - whatever their age - Business Link Wessex continues to work with the national Shell LiveWIRE scheme that has to date helped 400,000 16-30-year-olds explore the prospect of setting up their own enterprise.

Entries for this year's Shell LiveWIRE competition must be submitted by January 31.

For more information, e-mail livewire@valmoore.co.uk or call Business Link Wessex on 08454 58 85 58.