THREE women working for Wyre Forest companies are in the running for awards designed to recognise the importance of the role of the secretary.

Winners in the Secretary of the Year competition, run by Kidderminster-based Louise Hewett's employment agency, will be announced during a gala ceremony taking place tonight.

Among the contenders are Eileen Austin, of TP Activity Toys, Stourport, Sarah Grove, of Thomas Vale Construction, also Stourport, and Sue Ross, of Purac, Kidderminster.

Eileen is personal assistant to TP's managing director, Christopher Martyn-Smith and has worked for the company for four years.

She is involved in everything from general administration to acting as a sounding board for the firm's strategic plans.

"She has been an absolute godsend," said Mr Martyn-Smith, "Her obvious commitment and dedication to the role is reflected in her enthusiasm and willingness to go the extra mile."

She sits on the board of governors at Stourport High School and has two grandchildren.

Sarah Grove has been employed by Thomas Vale for 10 years, the last eight of them as PA to managing director, Tony Hyde.

Despite suffering from Crohns disease, she has coped with frequent tight deadlines in a high pressure role.

Her nomination in the competition came as a surprise. "I was completely in the dark, which is a first, as I usually deal with all of Tony's correspondence and don't know how he managed to keep this quiet," she explained.

Sue Ross has been with Purac for 11 years, having worked her way up through the ranks.

She provides personal assistant support to three bosses, the commercial director, projects director and the engineering and technology director.

Additional responsibilities include looking after the company's car fleet, insurance claims and mobile phones, as well as overseeing the 10-strong administrative team.

The event is being held at Hanbury Hall, near Droitwich.