COMPANIES in Bolton have been encouraged to enter for the prestigious 2005 Queen's Awards for Enterprise.

After winning a Queen's Award for Enterprise 2004, an innovative North-west company -- complete with a flock of "sheep" -- found itself in the royal spotlight when the Duke of Kent met award winners in London.

Firms across the region have received information as part of a nationwide campaign to promote the scheme, which recognises and rewards exceptional achievements and advances in all areas of business.

Stephen Brice, acting Queen's Awards secretary, said: "Over the years, the Bolton area has produced many worthy winners.

"Last year they included Travel Counsellors.

"But we know there are many more talented firms out there and we want them to come forward to receive the recognition they deserve.

"Any firm of merit can enter - and size is irrelevant. There's a misconception that only big companies win Queen's Awards, but nearly a half of the 2004 winners have fewer than 50 employees and a score have fewer than 10. After all, small and medium sized companies employ 12 million people in the UK and contribute £1 trillion a year to our economy.

The prestige of being associated with The Queen's Awards provides winners with a valuable promotional and marketing tool in an increasingly competitive domestic and global economy.

Call 0870 513 4486 or visit the website www.queensawards.org.

uk/2005awards for an application form. The deadline is October 31.