BUSINESSES and community groups in the Malvern Hills district have just two days left to gain recognition for their efforts over the past 12 months.

The deadline for Malvern Hills District Council's Platinum Awards for Business and Community Excellence is Friday.

The overall winner will receive £1,000 and £1,500 worth of regional press advertisements.

Each category award carries a £500 prize and winners also receive a commemorative plaque.

The awards are due to take place on Tuesday, April 15, at Malvern Theatres, Malvern, and all entrants are invited to the free event.

The award categories are manufacturing, retail, service, business start up, technology, arts, tourism, voluntary organisation and community project.

Entries need only be about 500 words.

"This is a great opportunity for businesses and community groups in the Malvern Hills district to promote locally and regionally what their organisation has achieved in the last year," said Adrian Field, event organiser.

"It also allows them to demonstrate the effort their members of staff and volunteers have put in and that it is valued.'

Large and small organisations can enter, as well as past entrants, as there will be a new panel of judges.

Entry forms are available by phoning Mr Field on 01684 862361 or clicking on: www.malvernhills.gov.uk/business_opps/platinum_awards.asp