Principal hails awards link-up

DEADLINE day for the inaugural Oldham Business Awards saw a deluge of entries — taking the final total of organisations seeking recognition to more than 50.

These numbers equated to 73 entries in the eight categories — giving the judges a mighty headache as they start the demanding process of sorting three finalists to appear at the gala presentation dinner in April.

The latest sponsor to get involved was The Oldham College, which has added its name to the growing list of organisations eager to be associated with what is already a huge success. Principal Kath Thomas said: “We have developed long-standing relationships with local businesses throughout the borough, to support in training and developing their workforce to achieve their goals.”

Chronicle editor Jim Williams commended the entrants.

He said: “When we launched these awards we knew that Oldham had a host of people deserving recognition.

“What we perhaps didn’t realise was the sheer breadth and depth of abilities in our business community.

“These awards will recognise all that is good about Oldham, which has a proud tradition of innovation and enterprise and, from the quality of the lists I have seen, the winners will have done exceptionally well indeed.”

Once the judging panels have decided upon their shortlists of three, a video production crew will visit each to capture an essence of the enterprise for broadcast on a giant screen on finals night.

All nominations will appear in the Chronicle next Wednesday.

Tickets are now on sale for the dinner with tables of 10 available at £350 which includes a champagne reception with canapes, five-course meal and cabaret throughout the evening. Call 0161-633 2121.