Time is running out to enter a prestigious competition which will celebrate the very best of British business.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and sponsors Microsoft are encouraging UK businesses not to miss the chance to enter the 2006 Chamber Awards.

The closing date for entries is the June 26, so there are only a few weeks left to make submissions.

Now in its third year, the Chamber Awards aims to recognise outstanding business achievement within the UK.

There are seven different award categories and companies can enter as many as they wish.

There is also a cash prize of £25,000 for the company that wins the award for Outstanding Business Achievement.

The awards are to be presented at a gala dinner at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London on the November 23 2006.

The Awards are open to any member company of an accredited Chamber of Commerce.

David Frost, director general of the BCC said: "It is vital to recognise and celebrate excellence in business.

“The UK is home to some of the world's most innovative companies and there are too few opportunities to recognise the hard work and contribution that business makes to our society.

“I urge businesses to enter the awards and gain the recognition they deserve."

© Crimson Business Ltd 2006