Tough task proves borough’s quality

JUDGING has taken place for the 2010 One Oldham Business Awards.

The shortlisted finalists are now gearing up for their big night at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham, on Monday, March 22.

The judges had an unenviable task in selecting 30 candidates from 98 entries — all of whom were worthy in their own right.

“It was incredibly difficult,” said Steve Lowe, from title sponsors NatWest who sat on three of the panels, adding: “Arriving at three finalists was difficult enough — choosing one winner was almost impossible.

“In several cases, and I know this from talking to other judging panels, all three judges were opting for different winners, which demonstrates the quality of entries and illustrates the depth of quality businesses in Oldham.”

The winners will be announced at the gala, black-tie dinner which already looks like topping last year’s attendance of 416.

One award has already been chosen — but the winner has not yet been informed.

The Knowledge Exchange Partnership Award is a new category sponsored by University Campus Oldham, part of The University of Huddersfield.

UCO, in Cromwell Street, has joined he awards as a major sponsor.

Debbie Bridge, who heads the Oldham campus wants the award to join the mainstream in 2011.

She said: “We are delighted to be part of this process. The awards were exceptional last year for the business community of the borough and we all want University Campus Oldham to play its part.”