THE search is on once again to find the best businesses in Thanet. Seven categories make up the 2003 Thanet District Council Business Awards, including Thanet Company of the Year and Employee of the Year. The awards are open to all firms and employees in the district of Thanet.

The categories, with sponsors, are:

*Thanet Company of the Year - Thanet Council

*Small Business Award (fewer than 10 employees) - Barclays Bank.

*Medium and Large Business Award (more than 10 employees) - Business Link Kent.

*Investing in Training Award - Business Link Kent

*Thanet Exporter of the Year - Sericol.

*Thanet Tourism and Leisure Award - Elonville Hotel, Cliftonville.

*The John Le Baigue Trophy for Employee of the Year - Multiglow Fires in memory of John Le Baigue.

Cllr. Paul Rollins, cabinet member with responsibility for economic development, said: "Each year the standard of entries which we receive for the Business Awards continues to increase, proving the wealth of business talent which we have in Thanet.

"The council is always keen to recognise business achievement and the commitment of the area's workforce and I would encourage companies and employees to put themselves forward for this year's awards".

Judy MacArthur Clark, director of Biozone, the 2002 Thanet Company of the Year, said: "I strongly urge and encourage all companies in Thanet to participate. This award really recognised the high quality work produced by our Thanet employees and gave them a great boost of pride in the company".

Entries may come from companies themselves, individuals employed within the company or customers of the companies. Entries for Employee of the Year may come from employers or work colleagues. The Thanet Company of the Year Award winner will be chosen from the winners of the other categories.

Winners, who will be announced at a presentation event on February 27, will receive a free day return Eurotunnel crossing for a car and up to five passengers.

Applications must be made by January 24. Details from Pauline Warren on 01843 609283.