THE countdown is on for this year’s Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards, with the online entry closing on Friday (August 16).

Many of the region’s businesses, community groups, and charities have been sending in their entries, ready for the panel of judges to review.

The event aims to promote and celebrate the best of Borders business, championing the diversity and achievement of those who operate within the region.

The flagship event, organised by the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce (SBCC) for the fifth successive year, is once again sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland.

Last year's Awards saw a record number of applications, with an increase of 146 percent in submissions, demonstrating the value to companies in celebrating their business success.

The Chamber is keen to remind people that there is no need to be a member of the organisation to submit an entry.

SBCC chairperson, Moira Wilson said: “The Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards showcases the array of outstanding businesses that we have in the area.

"Every business, no matter the size or sector can apply for the Awards and get the recognition they so thoroughly deserve in making the Scottish Borders a great place to work and live.”

Entrants who successfully make it through stage one will be invited to interview by Friday, August 30.

This year’s event will be held on Thursday, November 7 at The Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, near Peebles.

Businesses can enter via the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce website at www.borderschamber.com