SMALL businesses can reap the benefits of entering the Bolton and Bury Business Awards.

Last year's winner of the Small Business of the Year Award, Cy4or, said winning the title "put the company on the map"

Cy4or, formed in 2002, specialises in computer forensics, but also has services in mobile phone analysis and all types of fraud investigation.

The company has a state-of-the-art office in Bury with blast-proof storage, barred windows and security checks from New Scotland Yard. It also has offices in Aylesbury and London Joel Tobias, Cy4or's founder and managing director, said: " We were delighted to win the award because it was a regional award and was judged by business peers.

"It was a great boost to our team because as a small company we have to do everything as a team, and we share the accolades.

"It placed us on the map in the North-west, and that is very important to us."

The company has tripled in size since its formation and now has an impressive array of public and private sector clients.

This year's awards will be announced at a glittering ceremony in the Premier Suite at the De Vere Whites Hotel at the Reebok Stadium on June 28. BBC broadcaster Victoria Derbyshire will present the awards and entertainment is provided from comedian and Phoenix Nights star Ted Robbins.

The deadline for entries for the awards, which are being presented by The Bolton News and the Bury Times in association with Business Bolton, has been extended to April 21.