by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Following the absence of any Kent business in this year's Queen's Awards for Enterprise, the Lord Lieutenant of Kent is urging firms to enter the 2014 awards.

These prestigious awards are given to firms for excellence in enterprise, innovation, export achievement and sustainability. The Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion is awarded to exceptional individuals.

The awards are made annually by the Queen and are only given for the highest levels of excellence in each category.

Previous corporate winners in Kent have come from a wide selection of sectors and featured businesses of all sizes.

In many of the past few years, Kent has produced a winner. Last year, it was P&B Metal Components Ltd, Whitstable.

In 2011, Her Majesty honoured a record five winners - a badge of pride for the county's business community.

Award winners receive a certificate signed by the Queen and a crystal rose bowl, presented by the Lord Lieutenant on behalf of Her Majesty on the winners' premises after the citation has been read to the workforce by a Deputy Lieutenant.

They are permitted to use the Queen's Award logo on stationery and website and to fly a special flag.

However, the list of winners announced on the Queen's 87th birthday did not feature any Kent business.

Lord Lieutenant Viscount De L'Isle (pictured above right) said: "I am naturally disappointed that there were no winners from the county this year. But I know from personal experience that Kent and Medway are home to many excellent firms who excel in many forms of enterprise whether it be innovation, exports and sustainability, often all three.

"I would encourage any business with a good story to tell to enter these very special awards. Past award winners have told me just how much the accolade means to them. It enhances their reputation, helps to win more orders, and does wonders for staff morale. Entrants should not be deterred by the competitive nature of the scheme – nothing ventured; nothing gained.

"I look forward to presenting one or more Queen's Awards for Enterprise to Kent and Medway companies next year."

Businesses can enter the 2014 Queen's Awards for Enterprise at www.queensawards.bis.gov.uk by September 30.