Small firms and solo traders are being encouraged to put their names forward and get the recognition they deserve.

The team behind the newly launched Gravesham Business Awards is keen to seek out candidates among the smaller type of company and, in particular, the independent retail sector.

The awards organisers fear entrepreneurs responsible for such businesses could feel overwhelmed in the face of competition from larger firms.

Councillor Samir Jassal, Gravesham’s cabinet member for business development, said: “It is the smaller independent businesses that are the bedrock of the Gravesham economy, employing thousands of people, serving our communities, supplying larger business and helping the local economy to grow.

“They can show great creativity and innovation in the way that they do business, giving superb customer service and adding that welcome distinctiveness to the local business community.

“They deserve the spotlight that they will gain by entering the awards, so don’t delay in applying or nominating an independent you feel deserves recognition.”

Chairman of judges Keith Mason added: “If you own or run a small business and you are reading a piece about the local business awards, you may be thinking that this is not for you. It’s for big companies, right?

“You could not be more wrong! Size is as unimportant when it comes to these awards as it is in many other respects. Size is not what I, as chairman of judges, am interested in. And, in over 10 years of judging business awards, it never has been.”

To enter and get more details, go to www.graveshamawards.co.uk.