by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Kent's premier business awards have attracted a record entry.

Despite tough economic conditions, more than 260 entries have been received for the 2012 Kent Excellence in Business Awards (KEiBA).

It is the fourth year for the awards that recognise and celebrate the cream of business in Kent and Medway. In total, 265 entries have been received, 25% up on last year.

The awards are staged and produced by Kent County Council and the KM Group and backed by big-name sponsors.

Kevin Lynes, KCC cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, said: "Every year I'm amazed at the growth of applications for the KEiBA awards, and this year we have another record breaking crop of entries from Kent's premier businesses."

Geraldine Allinson, KM Group chairman, added: "It is very heartening, in such tough times, to see that there are so many of Kent's businesses with impressive success stories to put forward."

This year's 13 categories include a new one for success in international markets.

The winners will be announced at a glittering gala at Priestfield Stadium banqueting suite in Gillingham on June 28.

KEiBA are sponsored by Belmont International, Santander Corporate Banking, Lloyds TSB Commercial, Visit Kent, Southeastern, Kent Reliance, KCC Sustainability, Southern Water, asb law, HSBC, Kent International Business, Headley Brothers, IoD, Heart, The Kent Foundation, EMC Management Consultants, Kent Apprenticeships, Vertex Law and the University of Kent.