JUDGES for the Dorset Business Awards are now combing through a record number of entries in this year’s competition as the winners ceremony draws closer.

Backed by the Echo and organised by the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the awards are now in their 20th year and more than 30 judges are visiting 156 shortlisted companies for the judging process.

There are 14 categories for awards this year, ranging from the employee of the year award to the business engagement with the community award, with three judges visiting each business and the DCCI has put the judging guidelines on its website to try and inform the businesses just what is expected of them to be put forward to the finals.

Ian Girling, chief executive of DCCI, said: “Transparency and integrity is at the core of the awards process.

“The judges have no conflicts of interest. For example they do not normally have any close personal or commercial connection with the entrants.

“The judging panels can spend as long as a week considering each entry submission against the category criteria and their own discretion, based on their relevant expertise and will use a score sheet to ensure the process is consistent.”

The finalists will be announced later this month and will be invited to attend a “Meet the Finalist” event on Monday, November 17, where they will meet each other and the sponsor of their award category.

Nick Love, partner at Princecroft Willis, sponsor of the Family Business Award said: “The excitement of judging is not knowing who will enter your award, and over the last nine years I have had the opportunity to meet some terrific businesses all across Dorset.

“That first visit really does make the awards entry come to life and makes you realise the dedication and commitment that is at the heart of every successful business.”

The awards, also backed by radio station Wave 105, will be capped off with a glitzy ceremony at the Bournemouth International Centre on November 27 where the winners will be given their trophies.

For more information on the judging guidelines and process, visit dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk/the-judging-process For information on the ceremony at the BIC or to book places, contact Shirley Ewart on 01202 714812.