THE borough’s biggest private employers are once again backing the Bolton and Bury Business Awards.

O2 in Dumers Lane is sponsoring the community award, one of 10 sections which will celebrate all that is great and good within the two business communities.

Organised by the Bolton News and Bury Times Group, the awards are being held at the De Vere Whites Hotel at Bolton’s Reebok Stadium on Thursday, June 16.

And there is still time for local firms to enter and fly the flag for Bury. Last year Pennine Telecom did just that by capturing the coveted technology, innovation and design award. Other Bury awards sponsors are solicitors Clough & Willis, Radcliffe-based accountants Wilds, together with Groundwork Bolton and Bury.

Saj Umarji, head of O2 at Bury’s customer service centre, said: “The company has supported the community category for the past six years. There are so many unsung heroes in our local communities. These awards give us the opportunity to celebrate and recognise their efforts.”

Snooker star Steve Davis will be the guest speaker with television weathergirl Dianne Oxberry presenting the awards.

To enter: visit theboltonnews.co.uk/business_ awards/ then click on the category you want to enter. The closing date is April 23.

A table of 10 costs £500 plus VAT and individual prices are £50 plus VAT. To book your tickets: call the events team on 0845 3139463 (local rate) or email your booking details at events@northwest.newsquest.co.uk