THE search for the best automotive talent in Worcestershire has got underway with the promise of promoting the region as a world leader in car parts supply.

Now seen as the largest event of its kind in the industry, the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce-backed Accelerate Awards is on the look-out for some of the finest and best in class component manufacturers, with companies urged to showcase innovation, quality and new contracts. The event, which will be held on Friday, July 11, at the ICC in Birmingham, will celebrate environmental performance, export and skills and workforce development.

Rachel Eade, programme manager, said: "2007 was another year of evolution for UK suppliers and demonstrated that we are still very much a major force on the global stage when it comes to quality and, most importantly, innovation. The awards represent a fantastic opportunity for Worcestershire to build on recent achievements and show the rest of the world that our industry is amongst the best in product development and best in class manufacturing. We had over 80 entries last year and I would expect even more in 2008, with companies keener than ever to promote their capabilities and win new business."

To enter the Accelerate awards visit www.accelerate.uk.net or call 01216 070123.