BUSINESSES engaged in community activities are being urged to enter the Dorset Echo Industry Awards.

Last month marked the return of the awards, sponsored by Skyline, Weymouth College, HIX and Langham Wines and this year there are 11 categories for businesses in the DT postcode to enter.

The Best Community Engagement award is being sponsored by Active Mobility.

Samantha Bartlett, marketing manager said: “We want to encourage businesses to engage in community activities, not only for their own marketing purposes but also to support the local economy as well.”

Last year saw Weymouth Pavilion scoop the Best Community Engagement Award.

Speaking of the achievement, events manager Julie Storey said: “By nature of our title Community Interest Company, we pride ourselves on not only providing entertainment for all ages and tastes for the community, but also giving the many talented community groups a platform on which to present their work and spaces to hold their wide ranging events.”Our many valued volunteers also from within the community, are a great support to the business too. To be publicly recognised for all the above, by being nominated and subsequently to win the Best Community Engagement award was a great honour and our certificate is proudly displayed in the venue.”

“Apart from the recognition, on the evening itself is was a pleasure to talk with the many other nominees from the various categories and the evening was a great success.”

The Industry Awards include the following categories:

n Best Overall Retailer (sponsored by Fleetline)

n Best Customer Service Provider (sponsored by the Dorset Echo)

n Best Social Media Marketing (sponsored by Sherrens)

n Best Business Development or Innovative Idea (sponsored by WPCC)

n Best New Business (opened in the last two years, sponsored by Woods)

n Best Contribution to Local Tourism (sponsored by Pengillys)

n Best Product or Service (sponsored by Atlas)

n Best Community Engagement Business (sponsored by Active Mobility)

n Best Apprenticeship Employer (sponsored by Weymouth College)

n Best Dining Provider (sponsored by Brewery Square)

n Best Woman in Business (sponsored by Permanent Makeup by Claire Louise)

Businesses from the DT postcode sector can be nominated by sending 100 to 250 words by e-mail to debbie.hellaby@dorsetecho.co.uk with Industry Awards in the subject line. Up to three supporting documents may be provided as attachments.