THE search is on for Worcestershire organisations which help new and growing businesses develop and thrive.

One 2 One has launched its fourth annual Best for Business 2001 awards as a way of rewarding best practice in developing small businesses.

Best for Business is open to both public and private sector organisations from Business Links to High Street banks and is offering the opportunity to win up to £5,000.

"One 2 One has long been a champion of small businesses in the UK and Best for Business is one of the key ways in which we try to make sure that good development services are recognised and shared," said David Henson, business unit director at One 2 One.

"With nearly one million customers of our own, we believe that new and growing businesses are a vital - and financially significant - part of the UK's economy and we are keen to support them wherever we can."

Best for Business 2001 is supported by a wide range of national organisations for business including the Small Business Service, the Federation of Small Businesses, Investors in People UK and the National Federation of Enterprise Agencies.

The closing date for entries is Sunday, June 24, and any initiative - from a simple leaflet about using the web, to a multi million pound project designed to put the heart back into local business - is eligible.

For further information or an entry pack call the helpline on 0800 9567179.