VOTES from members of the public are needed to recognise outstanding Dorset talent.

For the first time, the Open 4 Business Awards are inviting people to register their vote for the Best Employer, the Best of Dorset Food and Drink and the most Inspirational Young Person in the area.

The winners will be announced at the Open 4 Business Awards ceremony and dinner on October 25 at Weymouth College.

People can vote for each of these three categories online at o4business.co.uk All entries must be in before the deadline of Monday, September 24.

Julie Cleaver, managing director of O4B, urged people to vote for their favourites at yesterday’s breakfast meeting of the Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce .

She said: “Open 4 Business is now in its 10th year.

“Every year we get together in October and celebrate all the brilliant work that is done throughout the year.

“2012 has been exceptional and we’ve had to operate businesses in different ways.

“O4B is a great way to celebrate your achievements and be recognised for it.”

The Dorset Echo is media partner for the awards and the main sponsor is Weymouth College.

Wessex FM sponsors the Best Employer Award while DJ Property sponsors the Best of Dorset Food and Drink, in which people can vote for bars or restaurants.

Equation Accounting is sponsoring the Inspirational Young Person Award, open to those aged 16 to 25 working or living in Dorset.

Stephanie Pettitt, of Equation, said: “I feel it’s important to recognise business owners in our Open 4 Business festivities.

“Nurturing the talents of the younger generation is essential as they will directly contribute to the future economic success of the Dorset business community.

“It’s my passion to ensure all young people who show a flair for business are supported and recognised.”

Entries are also encouraged in the other categories, which can be viewed at 04business.co.uk See o4business.co.uk/public- award-vote-form to vote.