As we enter the New Year, so begins the period of judging for the Test Valley Business Awards 2015.

Well over 100 entries have been received – a considerable increase on last year.

The awards steering committee would like to thank all businesses who entered or nominated others.

A spokesperson for TVBA commented: “The high quality and variety of applications never ceases to amaze us but this year is even more impressive. It is also so positive to realise that lots of local businesses are growing strongly and have great stories to tell.” Brand new for 2015 is the Doing Business Locally Award, sponsored by Andover company Taylored IT, which has the greatest number of entries.

Hendry Taylor, owner of Taylored IT, is delighted with the response this category has received, stating: “We perceive it to be of utmost importance to encourage and celebrate all local businesses in Test Valley.

“We would love to create a motto and ethos amongst local business, which has an emphasis on supporting each other in the local business eco system, this can be done, either via sourcing your goods from other local business, to hiring locally.

“By doing this we could potentially generate new customers, which in turn helps grow businesses. We would like to see local businesses in Test Valley being seen as a great place to start your own business, knowing you will have a solid support system of other local businesses.

“We hope to be able to highlight all these businesses via this award, so all local people can find out just what we have here on our very own doorstep, and we do not need to travel far to find something new or unique.”

Based in Andover, Hendry Taylor's successful company provides businesses with “Your IT, your way”.

Hendry also chairs the Andover Committee for Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and is a sponsor and keen supporter of Andover Rugby Club!

For more information on the Test Valley Business Awards and the 2015 Sponsors, please visit: tvbawards.org.uk