SMALL businesses in the North West are warned that time is running our for them to stand a chance of winning over £5,000 worth of prizes in the regional Parcelforce Small Business Award competition.

A spokesman for Parcelforce in the North West said: "The response from local businesses this year has been disappointing and has resulted in the closing date being extended to August 31."

The competition, now in its fifth year, aims to identify and recognise the best small businesses in the region. Other incentives to inspire North West businesses to enter are:

A Compaq computer, complete with a Softwear package worth more than £2,000;

PC based training costs of £500 from the Midland Bank;

A direct mailshot up to the value of £250 from Royal Mail North West;

A quality prize including a full business review supplied by Manchester Training and Enterprise Council;

Free 12 month Membership to a selected Chamber of Commerce;

Automatic entry into the National Award endorsed by the Department of Trade and Industry and Institute of Directors. The National Winner will also be offered a place on either a Business Growth or Executive Development programme up to the value of £2,500 at the Cranfield School of Management.

If you represent a small business that employs less than 25 people, are VAT registered and have been trading for at least two years, then get your entry form now by phoning free on 0800 919989.

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