TIME is running out in the search for Trowbridge's top employee with more than 20 nominations in the hat already.

Organisers of the annual Trowbridge Employee of the Year competition say entries have been strong this year and key businesses from the town have staff in the running.

There is still time for customers and employers to nominate workers they think deserve to win. The closing date for nominations is New Year's Eve.

Judge Steve Oborne, of Travail Employment Group, the competition's main sponsor, said many nominations had come from customers, but he has urged employers to consider nominating their staff.

He said: "If you are an employer who feels you have an employee whose performance in the customer service area is exemplary, nominate them now.

"There is £500 of free advertising in the Wiltshire Times for the employer of the winning candidate, not to mention the widespread publicity to be gained in the three months leading up to the final on March 10. You will also have a very happy employee if they reach the final."

Nominations should include details of the employee being put forward as well as the person making the nomination and reasons for the nomination.

Entries are being collected by the Wiltshire Times and Trow-bridge Chamber of Commerce.

First prize this year is a New York trip with £100 spending money.