Staffordshire businesses are being reminded that there is still time to enter the Queen's Awards for Enterprise 2021.

The Awards recognise outstanding achievement by UK businesses, charities and public bodies with awards being made for Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity through social mobility.

26 Staffordshire-based companies have already been recognised over the last ten years, including Addmaster (UK) LTD Stafford and Churchill China PLC based in Stoke-on-Trent who both won awards this year.

Winning an award offers businesses many benefits including global recognition that an organisation is outstanding in its field, additional marketing opportunities, boosting staff morale and increased growth.

David Gage MBE DL, Her Majesty's Deputy Lieutenant of Staffordshire wants local companies to enter and is reminding them that there is still time to do so.

David said: "The Queen's Awards for Enterprise are a highly regarded honour bringing with them sought-after prestige and unique benefits for winners.

"Over the years, Staffordshire has continued to hold its own with around 26 winners since 2011, but I would like to see even more of our amazing companies recognised for their incredible contributions.

"I also know that there will be companies and organisations working hard on new products, ideas or services to overcome the Coronavirus pandemic. Receiving an award could be a good way of having those contributions recognised."

Alan White, Leader at Staffordshire County Council said: "We have some truly innovative and leading companies based here in Staffordshire and it would be great to see them recognised in this way for their contributions.

"There are huge benefits and prestige to companies who receive the award and I would encourage them to check if they are eligible and enter before the closing date on 9 September."

Winners are invited to a Royal Reception at Buckingham Palace hosted by HRH The Prince of Wales, and presented with the award at their premises by Mr Ian Dudson CBE KStJ, Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire.

Further details on the awards can be found here and the closing date for entries is midday Wednesday 9 September 2020.