WOMEN running their own business in Swindon and Wiltshire have just two weeks left to stake a claim for the £10,000 first prize on offer at the T-Mobile Women Mean Business Awards 2003.

And organisers say that unlike the rest of the UK, businesswomen in the south west have been shy to share their success stories.

A spokesman for the awards said: "We're looking for women who own businesses more than two-years-old. We know there is a huge pool of talent in the south west, but perhaps local businesswomen, unlike their male counterparts, are reluctant to shout about their success.

"Our message to the region's businesswomen is enter now and fly the flag for the south west."

Launched last month by T-Mobile the awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of women who have turned a business dream into reality and are now running their own companies.

Any size business can enter the awards, providing the majority of shares are in private ownership and the company has been running for more than two years. Entries are not judged on turnover alone with eligible companies ranging from multi-million pound businesses to more modest tabletop industries.

Judges will be looking for practical examples of how women have developed a thriving commercial venture, including innovation, marketing and promotion, any obstacles overcome and business acumen.

The deadline for entries is Friday, April 11. Entry forms can be obtained from the organiser's office on 020 8673 2020.