THE emergence of the Worcestershire automotive industry as a world leader will once again be in the spotlight, after the final rallying call for the Accelerate Supplier Awards 2007.

Now in its eighth year the nationally recognised competition is on the lookout for some of the region's finest and best-in-class component manufacturers. Companies are urged to showcase innovation, performance and new contract wins.

The prestigious event, which will be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Birming-ham, on Friday, November 2, will also celebrate the major advancements currently taking place in the industry, including examples of new hybrid technology and product launches.

Rachel Eade, programme manager, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for Worcestershire to build on recent achievements and show the rest of the world that our industry is not only going to survive, but lead the rest of the world in product development and best-in-class manufacturing.

"We had more than 60 entries last year and I would expect even more in 2007. I know that companies are keener than ever to promote their capabilities and win new business.

"The Accelerate awards are one of the highlights of the car parts' calendar and promise to be the best yet."

The gala evening at the ICC will take as its theme the patriotic and winning spirit of Britain during the 1940s.

It is expected to attract an audience of more than 500 high-profile delegates from car manufacturing companies and tier one and small to medium-sized enterprises (SME).

Ms Eade said: "We need entries from companies by Friday, July 6, and these can be done through the new website.

"We will ask each nominated company to fill in an official entry form and they will then go into the judging pool, which will once again feature some of the biggest names and personalities in the industry."

Similar to last year, there will be prizes for the best large and small SME in the region and a special accolade from the judging panel.

Outstanding achievement in the five sub-regions will also be recognised, with regional titles set for Birmingham, Black Country, Coventry and Warwick-shire, Staffordshire and West Mercia.

Companies should visit www.accelerate.uk.net for an application form.