A well-known boss has been shortlisted for a national award.

Darren Fell from Crunch in Preston Road, Brighton, has been named as a finalist at the 20th annual Amazon Growing Business Awards at The Brewery in London on November 28.

Crunch supports businesses by providing financial services and support to empower freelancers, contractors, start-ups and small businesses.

Darren is in the running for entrepreneur of the year.

He said: “2018 has been a fantastic year for Crunch.

“We’ve continued to grow as a company and now look after more than 10,500 freelancers, contractors and small businesses.

“To be shortlisted for an Amazon Growing Business Award is the icing on the cake.

“Getting this recognition from businesses like Amazon and organisations such as the CBI and Real Business is a great honour and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team.

“We’re all really excited for the awards ceremony on November 28.”

Doug Gurr, UK country manager, said: “The depth and breadth of this year’s shortlist proves why the UK is a great place to set up and run a business.

“With a record number of applicants, there was a high level of competition in every category. I’d like to congratulate Crunch and wish them all the best of luck on the awards night.”

Created by Real Business, headlined by Amazon and supported by the CBI, the Amazon Growing Business Awards celebrate the successes of the UK’s SMEs and entrepreneurs.

New for this year, the Amazon Growing Business Awards will honour businesses who have made a positive impact to society.

The 2018 Amazon Growing Business Awards also see the continuation of two new award categories introduced last year: family-owned businesses and the creative industries.

Since its launch in 1999, the Amazon Growing Business Awards has celebrated exceptional businesses and outstanding entrepreneurs.

Previous winners include Go Ape, Innocent Drinks, Betfair, Lovefilm and Fever-Tree, while VIP guests to have graced the ceremony include Bill Gates, Gordon Brown and Stelios Haji-Ioannou.

Category winners will be presented with an award and benefit from the publicity associated with the event. All high-growth and entrepreneurial companies may enter the awards.