THE countdown has begun to the prestigious Bolton and Bury Business Awards which are back for the sixth successive year.

Now, local companies can fly the flag for Bury and put their business and the borough well and truly on the map.

They are being urged to enter the annual event which recognises and rewards the achievements of companies in both towns.

The awards, hailed as one of the most important events in the business calendar, will be staged at the De Vere Whites Hotel, at Reebok, Bolton, on Thursday, June 16.

Snooker star Steve Davis will be guest speaker with weathergirl Dianne Oxberry presenting the awards. Norman Prince will be master of ceremonies. Each year since their inception, the awards have grown in status and popularity and now attract an audience of around 600 guests. The glittering black tie event is organised by the Bolton News and Bury Times Group and the main sponsor is the Bolton Council-run Business Bolton.

You can either book individual tickets, or why not treat your valued employees to a great night out by booking your own table? A table of 10 costs £500 plus VAT, individual prices at £50 plus VAT and include: To book your tickets to attend call the Events Team on 0845 313 9463 (local rate) or alternatively email your booking details at: events@northwest.newsquest.co.uk