ONE of Winchester’s largest employers is once again sponsoring an annual event aimed at promoting the best businesses across the district.

The Winchester Business Excellence Awards were launched at a prestigious event two weeks ago at Norton Park Hotel in Sutton Scotney.

Hosted by the event founder Hampshire Chronicle and its partners, Winchester Business Improvement District and Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, the awards aim to recognise the top-end of traders throughout the Winchester district.

This year sees Winchester-based dental insurance company Denplan step up again as its principle sponsor.

Originally founded in 1986 by two dentists wanting to offer patients an alternative to NHS dentistry, the firm now works with over 6,500 dentists serving some 1.8 million patients across the UK.

The firm is also sponsoring the Business of the Year award – one of the highest accolades to be presented at the glittering awards ceremony in June.

Stephen Gates, managing director at Denplan, said: “Denplan has been part of the Winchester economy for almost 30 years and it’s fantastic to see the innovation and business excellence brought to the city year on year. We are delighted that these efforts are recognised and rewarded by the Winchester Business Excellence Awards and Denplan is very proud to be returning as the principal sponsor.”

The Business of the Year Award will be presented to a dynamic company which demonstrates excellence in developing its business.

Judges will be looking for a company which shows sound financial and business planning and proves it can overcome challenges to drive its company forward.

They will also be looking for a clear relationship between its marketing strategy and the development of its business as well as a clear plan for future growth.

Businesses have until 5pm on Friday, February 27, to enter and must operate within the Winchester district.

Other awards that can be entered for include the Carbon Smart Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and the Excellence Online Award – new to this year.

It replaces the Winchester Food Experience and the Small Business of the Year Award has been swapped for the Excellence in Innovation Award.

To find out more about the awards click here or go to winchesterbusinessawards.co.uk.