NEWHAVEN Chamber of Commerce has launched the 15th Annual Seahaven Business Awards.

The 2018 awards are now open for nominations and recognise businesses which have shown tremendous commitment, innovation and inspiration to all around them.

Chamber President Mike Shorer said: ‘Last year’s successful event will be matched by our 15th annual awards with headline sponsors Veolia and Wave Leisure, Elite Industries, Newhaven Enterprise Centre and HM Bookkeeping.

“We will be welcoming special guests the new Vietnamese Ambassador to the UK, Ambassador Tran Ngoc An and the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, David Allam to the Grand Gala Awards Dinner on May 11 at Jerrom Hall, Peacehaven.’

There are seven categories giving local businesses and community organisations the opportunity to enter at least two categories.

• Business of the Year – sponsored by Sussex Sign Company

• Business Person of the Year – sponsored by Swindells Chartered Accountants

• Best Environmental Business – sponsored by Fine Marketing

• Best Customer Service – sponsored by Meeching Estate Agents

• Best New Business – sponsored by Excell Designs

• Best Eatery – sponsored by Fundraising Auctions

• President’s Award - Best Business in the Community sponsored by Elite Industries.

Any business located in, or trades within the Seahaven area BN9, BN25 or BN10 postcodes mainly Newhaven, Seaford and Peacehaven, is eligible to enter.

Businesses do not need to be members of a local Chamber of Commerce to take part.

Businesses can nominate themselves or can be nominated. The awards are free to enter.

On the judging panel twill be MP Maria Caulfield, MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle, the Mayor of Newhaven and the Presidents of the Newhaven, Peacehaven and Seaford Chambers of Commerce.

Closing date for nominations is Friday, 23 March .

The winners will be presented with stunning trophies designed by Newhaven President and goldsmith Mike Shorer.

The Seahaven Business Awards are organised by Newhaven Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Peacehaven and Seaford Chambers of Commerce.

Enter at www.newhavenchamber.co.uk or ring the Chamber office on 01273 517544 for more information.