This year the show will be bigger and better accommodating up to 200 stands, over 2 floors with 3 rooms, we are offering an even bigger choice. The event will be one of the largest events of its kind south of London. Visitors will be able to indulge their interest for the finer things in life, whilst taking in some demonstrations and presentations offering practical tips and advice.

With the emphasis on quality and style, we aim to showcase a broad selection of lifestyle options, all conveniently arranged into themed areas. So from delicious food and striking interiors, to high quality garden furniture and the latest green products and initiatives, we aim to make the Gardens, Homes & Lifestyle etc show the place to be seen at in 2013!

Zones include: 

etc Interior & Design
etc Garden & Outdoor Living
etc Lifestyle & Technology
etc Kids
etc Food
etc Women

Opening Times: 

10am – 5pm Saturday
10am – 4pm Sunday

Visit the etc Gardens, Homes & Lifestyle Show website here

A message from our headline sponsor:
“Supporting local communities is fundamental to our company values; therefore, having the opportunity to be the main sponsor again for the ETC Garden, Homes & Lifestyle Show in their third year is a real pleasure.  It is the perfect occasion for our experts to interact with visitors, allowing us to pass on professional advice for all manner of decorating projects.  We’ll have live demonstrations and a beautiful display of paints and wallpapers to further enhance our offering at the show and help customers achieve the best results in their homes.“

The only way is to our hair and beauty awards for Amy…

TOWIE star will present prestigious ceremony!

WITH her very own beauty salons and beauty range, TOWIE star Amy Childs knows her stuff about hair and beauty industry.

Salons across the city will be abuzz with the news that the reality show star will be presenting this year’s The News Hair and Beauty Awards.

Amy shot to fame on smash hit TV program The Only Way Is Essex. With her glamorous looks and industry knowledge, she will make the perfect presenter for the ceremony.

Amy, 22, said: ‘I’m so excited to be presenting The News Hair and Beauty Awards this year. As a trained beautician, I’m looking forward to honouring my fellow professionals for their hard work and dedication to the industry.’

The News events co-ordinator Sara Allerton said: ‘We’re absolutely thrilled to have Amy coming to the awards. She’s a real inspirational to so many in the industry. She’s such a success at such a young age and we are really looking forward to meeting her.’

Readers can nominate their favourite salons and stylists in The News Hair and Beauty Awards by filling out a voting slip.

Salons with the most nominations will be judged by a panel of experts, who will create a shortlist of nominees to be invited to an awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in June.

Tracy Mackinnon, manager of Nikki Froud Salon, High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent, said: ‘This year the team are really going for it. The team here find it a challenge – one came first last year and another came second – so there is some real competition. We hope we are at the awards again.’

Stylist Lauren Butler, 18, from Nikki Froud Salon said: ‘The awards are really good. I like Amy as well as I used to watch her on the telly. She’s done well with her salons, she’s well known and she always looks nice. I’m really looking forward to seeing her.’

Now in their third year, The News Hair and Beauty Awards aim to unite salon professionals throughout South East Hampshire & West Sussex and provide a platform to celebrate talent within the local hair and beauty sector. They also aim to recognise local talent and their dedication to styling their clients.

These skilled individuals who make us feel a million dollars after a visit to their salons will be celebrated and their clients and colleagues can let them know how much they are valued and appreciated.

Nominations will open on the grand launch on February 14th 2013, with the voting closing on the 4th May 2013 and the shortlist for each category published the following week.

Any nominations after midnight on Saturday 4th May will not be counted.

The key objective of these awards is to build and strengthen strong relationships between salons, sponsoring brands and consumers across Portsmouth and beyond. Discover new business opportunities as you meet, eat, drink and celebrate together. Gain personal access to key decision makers from every major Salon in the South East Hampshire and West Sussex area. Achieve maximum on-brand wow-factor impact with exclusive product presence. Showcase your products for success with local salon professionals. Contribute to the gift bag for lasting product recognition, long after the event is over, representing repeat sales opportunities. Gain a superb ROI through our advertising and PR activity, leading up to the networking opportunities on the night.

Grand Final Awards Dinner June 15th 2013. Portsmouth Guildhall, Portsmouth.

TIMELINE FOR AWARDS & TICKETS

Closing date:
All nominated salons and individuals should email the official entry form with evidence and images to support their entry on or before the 4th of May Any nominations after midnight on Saturday 4th May will not be counted.

Shortlist announced in The News:
Week commencing 6th of May shortlist will be announced.

Ticket Sales:
Please note tickets are on sale at £45.00 + vat each for the gala awards ceremony, to include welcome reception drinks, 3 course meal and entertainment.

To book your tickets please click here or call 02392 622206

AND OUR WINNERS ARE?…
June the 15th our winners are revealed at our black tie gala ceremony, hosted by Amy Childs and Sara Allerton of The News.

For any further information please email sara.allerton@thenews.co.uk

Nominations

For all nominations please use the official voting slip which can be found in every Saturday’s edition of The News

(Saturday 4th May is the last form going in The News for paper votes. Due to the Bank Holiday postal nomination forms will be accepted up until 12 noon on Thursday the 9th May).

or click HERE to use our interactive online form or email events@thenews.co.uk however any nominations after midnight on Saturday 4th May will not be counted.

For more information please contact Sara Allerton on 02392 622206

The categories

We will be looking for nominations in the following categories…

Junior Stylist of the Year (includes stylists with less than 2 years experience).
sponsored by Portsmouth Cultural Trust

Colour Technician of the Year (minimum 2 years salon experience)
sponsored by Pureology and Redken

Gents’/Barber of the Year (minimum 2 years salon or barber shop experience)
sponsored by Kasho

Female Stylist of the Year (minimum 2 years salon experience)
sponsored by GHD

Best Bridal/Special Occasion (hair up/extensions/hair art)
sponsored by Make Light Work

Hair Salon of the Year (trading more than 18 months)
sponsored by Lee Stafford

Best Start-up Salon of the Year (hair or beauty trading 18 months or less)
sponsored by Arona Creations

Beauty Therapist of the Year (beauticians/male & female grooming/tanning etc)
sponsored by Amy Childs

Nail Technician of the Year (manicures/pedicures/nail art/gel/acrylics etc)
sponsored by Free Edge Nail Academy

Cosmetic Therapist of the Year (make up/semi-permanent/skin peels/advanced treatments/laser etc)
sponsored by Fabulous Face and Body

Beauty Salon of the Year (trading more than 18 months)

Training Centre Excellence Award (hair or beauty – open to colleges/salons/individuals)
sponsored by Changes Clinic of Excellence

Special Achievement (an individual or team who has risen to a challenge or overcome adversity).
sponsored by St Vincent College

Lifetime Achievement Award (special award for someone who has dedicated their life to their profession and encouraged and inspired others along the way).
sponsored by The Breeze

Sponsorship opportunities

We would like to offer you your brand and business the opportunity to be part of this glamourous event. We will be implementing a high profile media presence throughout the awards including tabloid, trade, radio and internet visibility.

Visit our sponsorship opportunities here or email Sara Allerton sara.allerton@jpress.co.uk or call 02392 622206

We asked you to nominate your favourite salons and stylists and thousands of you did.

This year a record 6,021 nominations were received by The News for the third annual Hair and Beauty Awards.

Event organiser Sara Allerton said: ‘This year’s volume of nominations from our readers has been amazing. The support shown to their favoured salons, stylists and therapists has been truly outstanding and all those nominated should be exceptionally proud of themselves.
The quality of talent in The News’ area this year has made the short-listing process extremely difficult and those who have made the cut really are some of the best in the business.’

Some categories had nearly 100 different nominations in and all the short-listed entrants are listed here.

The awards will be held on Saturday, June 15 at the Portsmouth Guildhall, where category winners will be revealed and presented with their award by TV star Amy Childs.

Sara said: ‘There has been a real buzz around the salons in anticipation of this year’s awards, with people excited at the prospect of attending the glamorous gala dinner at the Guildhall. It really will be best dresses on, hair and make up to perfection, a real red-carpet event and a chance to show other salons just how good you are.’

Debbie Timberlake, director of the Free Edge Nail Academy has been shortlisted for two categories, and is also sponsor for nail tech of the year. She is looking forward to the night.

Debbie said: ‘We’re all so excited about the awards and the opportunity of networking with like-minded professionals and celebrating our local talent.’

Tickets are now on sale which include welcome reception drinks, three course meal with wine, the awards and entertainment.
Tickets cost £45 + vat and can be purchased by calling 02392 622750 or emailing events@thenews.co.uk.

The Judges

THE awards will be judged by a panel of experts, including celebrity hair stylist Lee Stafford, model Jessica-Jane Clement and TV star Amy Childs.

Lee Stafford is well known as a hairdresser to the stars, has over 20 years experience and owns a hair and beauty salon in London.

He will be joined by his wife, Jessica-Jane Clement, who presented television programme, The Real Hustle, and took part in I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here. She also had a go at cutting hair in the television series, Celebrity Scissorhands.

The Only Way Is Essex star, Amy Childs, will be judging the awards as well as presenting them on the night.

Despite being a young 22, Amy knows the hair and beauty industry well and owns her own salon in Brentwood called ‘Amy Childs’ Salon’. She also owns her own range of cosmetics, including strip eyelashes, fake tan and hair straighteners.

The three celebrities will be joined by News reporter Kimberley Barber, who has been out and about getting to know the salons since the awards launched in March.

They will be overseen by The News’ Editor Mark Waldron.

Mark said: ‘There are so many excellent salons and stylists out there who all have such a passion for their work. It’s certainly going to be a tough decision to make.’

The Shortlist

Junior Stylist of the Year

Jenna Philip – Benjamin James Hair Vision, Cooper Street, Chichester

Rebecca Chambers – Hill Head Hair and Beauty, Crofton Lane, Hill Head

Lauren Butler – Nikki Froud, The High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent

Maddie Yates – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Daisy Beck – Toni & Guy, Cascade Shopping Centre, Portsmouth

Jasmine Connor – Q Hair & Beauty, North Street, Chichester

Charlotte Moody – Ha Ha Academy, London Road, North End

Natasha Jeal – United Salons, Elm Grove, HaylingIsland

Frankie Talbot – United Salons, Elm Grove, HaylingIsland

Leah Spencer – Strawberry Workshop, High St, Lee-on-the-Solent

Best Start Up

The Library Barbers Club, Victoria Road South, Southsea

Crystal Tips, Fareham

Elegance Bridal Coiffure, Grassmere Way, Waterlooville

Salon 57, Station Road, HaylingIsland

Fabulous Factory, The Precinct, Gosport

Sugar Locks, Widley

The Terrace, Hampshire Terrace, Portsmouth

The Hair Tailors, London Rd, Portsmouth,

Salon 16, Lavant Street, Petersfield

Beautilicious, Gosport

Ha Ha Academy, London Road, North End

Review, Osborne Road, Southsea

Blades Barbers, Tregaron Avenue, Drayton

Headromance, Park Road South, Havant

Training Centre of Excellence

FarehamCollege, Bishopsfield Road, Fareham

FreshStartBeautySchool, Frogmore Lane, Lovedean

Hair Advice Centre Hayling, Elm Grove, HaylingIsland

Free EdgeNailAcademy, Donaldson Road, Cosham

Review, London Road, Waterlooville

St VincentsCollege, Mill Lane, Gosport

Ha Ha Academy, London Road, North End

HighburyCollege, Tudor Crescent, Cosham

Nikki Froud, The High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent

GosportCollegeAcademy, High Street, Gosport

Hair Salon of the Year

Strands, Gull Coppice, Whiteley

Q Hair & Beauty, North Street, Chichester

Bodyworks Havant, Meridian Centre, Havant

United Salons, Elm Grove, HaylingIsland

Nikki Froud, The High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent

Green Mango, Ordnance Row, Portsmouth

David Antony, Southsea

Strands, Hill Head

United Salons, Southsea

Benjamin James Hair Vision, The Hornet, Chichester

Lisa Edwards, Fareham

Hill Head Hair and Beauty, Crofton Lane, Hill Head

Scruples, High Street, Gosport

Lorraine Lambe Hairdressing, Chichester Rd, Portsmouth

Review, St Peter’s Road, Petersfield

Female Stylist of the Year

Katie Merry – Bodyworks Havant, Meridian Centre, Havant

Chris Aguarro – Green Mango, Ordnance Row, Portsmouth

Stevie Kelsey – Mark Allen Salon, London Road, Cowplain

Rebecca Murphy – Salon 57

Suzanne Summers – Nikki Froud Hairdressing, The High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent

Emily Warne – Headromance, Park Road South, Havant

Tom Metcalfe – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Liam Fry – United Salons, Castle Road, Southsea

Emma Shellis – Hill Head Hair & Beauty, Crofton Lane, Hill Head

Charlie Rhodes – The Cutting Company, Wayte Street, Cosham

Nicola Stoyles – Toni & Guy, Cascades, Portsmouth

Steve Christie – Lisa Edwards, West Street, Fareham

Amanda Strother – United Salons, Castle Road, Southsea

Best Bridal/Special Occasion

Lisa Philimore – Lisa Edwards, West Street, Fareham

Billy Fry – Strands, Gull Coppice, Whiteley

Kayleigh Gayer – Toni & Guy, Cascades Shopping Centre, Portsmouth

Clair Hockin – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Rob and Andrew Pearce – The Dressing Room @ Creatiques, Marmion Rd, Southsea

Michaela Ainsley – Benjamin James Hair Vision, Cooper Street, Chichester

Claire Greaves – Couture Hair & Make Up, Fareham

Julie Giffin – Nikki Froud, The High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent

Annette Bradford – Elegance Bridal Coiffure, Westbrook Centre, Grassmere Way, Waterlooville

Special Achievement

Ian Henry – Mens Hairdresser,Spur Road, Cosham

Bill Smyth & Carol Ritchie – Bill Smyth & The Hair Cafe, Southsea

Sandra Cadman – Scissors Hair Design, Eastney Road, Eastney

The Team – Wigs@creations, Southgate, Chichester

Michael Saunders – United Salons, Elm Grove, HaylingIsland

Marion Lee and Team – New Wave, Kingston Road, Fratton

The Team – Hairport Professional Mobile Hairdressing, Hampshire

The Team – Headmasters, Middle Road, Park Gate

Beauty Therapist of the Year

Laura Cox – Westbourne Beauty Clinic, East Street, Emsworth

Harley Jenkins – Shine Hair Studio, Marmion Road, Southsea

Kerrie Eves – Baytree Beauty, The Square, Wickham

Sandy Lines – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Paula Orton – Bodyworks Havant, Meridian Centre, Havant

Erin Gillham – Erin’s Beauty Salon, Trinity Street, Fareham

Vanessa Anderson – Figura, Albert Road, Southsea

Leanne Winterbottom – Strawberry Workshop, High St, Lee-on-the-Solent

Hannah Murphy – Hill Head Hair and Beauty, Crofton Lane, Hill Head

Dianna Maxwell – Lisa Edwards, North Street, Chichester

Colour Technician

Emily Warne – Headromance, Park Road South, Havant

Heather Currie – United Salons, Castle Road, Southsea

Dan Underwood – Nikki Froud Hairdressing, Lee-on-the-Solent

Kate Eaton – Andrew Price Hairdressing, Northern Parade, Hilsea

Eve Hoar – Bodyworks Havant, Meridian Centre, Havant

Heidi van Herck – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Felicity Meiris – Toni & Guy, Cascades, Portsmouth

Ryan Knight – Green Mango, Ordnance Row, Portsmouth

Lucie Wilson – Benjamin James Hair Vision, Chichester

Helen Kewell – Q Hair & Beauty, North Street, Chichester

Steve Christie – Lisa Edwards Fareham, West Street, Fareham

Fiona Riches – Hill Head Hair and Beauty, Crofton Lane

Beauty Salon

Sweet Retreat @ ROKO, Copnor Road, Copnor

Korens Beauty, Central Road, Drayton

Bodyworks Havant, Meridian Centre, Havant

Elegance Bridal Coiffure, Westbrook Centre, Grassmere Way, Waterlooville

Kspa, 3600 Parkway, Whiteley

Lisa Edwards, North Street, Chichester

Westbourne Beauty Clinic, East Street, Emsworth

Erin’s Beauty Salon, Trinity Street, Fareham

Sandy Lines @ David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Strawberry Workshop, High Street, Lee-on-the-Solent

Cosmetic Therapist

Annette Bradford – Elegance Bridal Coiffure, Westbrook Centre, Grassmere Way, Waterlooville

Frederika Bird – Green Mango, Ordnance Row, Portsmouth

Deborah McIntyre – Transitions, Fratton Road, Fratton

Dr Dev Patel – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Jemma Brooks – Beautique, Winter Road, Southsea

Vanessa Anderson – Figura, Albert Road, Southsea

Nail Technician

Vanessa Hore – Kspa, 3600 Parkway, Whiteley

Emily Paterson – Erin’s Beauty Salon, Trinity Street, Fareham

Laura Smith – The Nail Boutique, Yorke Terrace, Hilsea

The Team – Charlies Nails and Beauty, London Road, Widley

Erin Gillham – Erin’s Beauty Salon, Trinity Street, Fareham

Charlie Spurway – Charlies Nails and Beauty, London Road, Widley

Laura Ashton – Crystal Tips, Fareham

Lu Harfield – Salon sixteen, Lavant Street, Petersfield

Gents/Barber

Ceejay Beer – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Katie Travis – United Salons, Elm Grove, HaylingIsland

Steph Jones – Strands, Whiteley and Hill Head

Sharan Sargeant – Blades Barbers, Drayton

Amanda Strother – United Salons, Castle Road, Southsea

Gemma Minto – Toni & Guy, Cascades, Portsmouth

Adam Brown – Razors Edge, Portsmouth and Southsea Station

Josh Carrol Smith – The Library Barbers Club, Victoria Road South, Southsea

Patrick Barry – Strawberry Workshop, Lee-on-the-Solent

Anna Maloney – Hill Head Hair and Beauty, Crofton Lane

Danny Taylor – The Terrace, Hampshire Terrace, Portsmouth

Josh Sawyer – Green Mango, Ordnance Row, Portsmouth

Lifetime Achievement

Deborah Timberlake – Free EdgeNailAcademy,Cosham

David Hyde – David Antony, Winter Road, Southsea

Alex Keyte – Shine Hair Salon, Marmion Road, Southsea

Pauline Howe – Strands, Hill Head and Whiteley

Nikki Froud – Nikki Froud Hairdressing, Lee-on-the-Solent

Sue Wallace – Strawberry Workshop, Lee-on-the-Solent

Sandra Cadman – Scissors Hair Design, Eastney Road, Eastney

Paul Hawes and Elaine Armitage – Review, Petersfield, Waterlooville, Southsea

Tony Woods – United Salons, Castle Road, Southsea

Anthony Barnes-Smith – Q Hair & Beauty, North Street, Chichester

Lisa Edwards – Lisa Edwards Hair & Beauty

Rachael Riches – Hill Head Hair and Beauty, Crofton Lane

This outdoor summer event, sponsored by Morrisons, will include live celebrity cookery demonstrations, creative cooking activities for all the family, live entertainment, top food specialists, including Aldo Zilli, from all over the UK and much, much more.

As the name suggests it is a celebration of food and culture from around the world; with cuisines from the Far East to North Africa, the Caribbean to Central Asia, the Mediterranean to Africa, Europe to the Americas and even close to home in the British isles.

The latest event took place on July 14th and 15th from Fontwell Racecourse and was a great success despite the weather. Visitors also had the chance to enjoy live demonstrations by Michelin award winner and top chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, guest of honour at the festival.

The top celebrity chef showcased his cookery expertise to an eagerly anticipating crowd who filled the marquee, eager to sample Novelli’s culinary wizardy.
“Taste of the World is absolutely incredible. “It was a pleasure to come to this area, with the quality of the stands and the way everything was organised. “I was highly impressed by organisers Johnston Press South,” said Mr Novelli.

Blend together the culinary expertise of Jean-Christophe Novelli, crowds of visitors and the dedication of more than 70 food stands, the Taste of The World festival was a real recipe for success.
Thank you to Northbrook College for assisting and supplying the ingredients for Jean Christophe Novelli’s demonstrations.

How to enter? It’s simple.

• Complete the form attached – remember, it’s the judges’ first impression of you and your company.
  Include as much information as you can – add everything that makes your firm special.
• Email jeanette.hockley@jpress.co.uk by 5th July 2013.
• Wait to discover if YOU are one of the judges finalists

CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR NOMINATION

Soon after the closing date, an independent panel of judges will assess every entry. The judging panel will comprise distinguished personalities from the business world. All companies successfully making it to the judges finalists will be offered first opportunity to buy a table at the glittering black-tie Business Matters Annual Awards 2013 ceremony.

Bear in mind there is nothing to prevent companies from entering more than one category and many of the companies entering the awards will be contacted by one of our journalists to enable stories about their success to appear in our series of weekly newspapers.
Entry is free. Good Luck.

The awards gala black tie dinner will be held at Copthorne Hotel Effingham Gatwick on Friday, 26th July  2013.

Drinks reception 7.00pm
Dinner served 7.30pm
Awards Ceremony 9.00pm
Entertainment 10.30pm
Carriages 12.00pm

Fred Dinenage will host the evening, tickets are available at £50.00 per person plus vat. For more details contact Jeanette Hockley on 01243 534140 or email jeanette.hockley@jpress.co.uk for more information.

Awards criteria & categories

Overall Business of The Year
This prestigious award will be given by the judges to one of the winners from the business categories below. The company that carries off this award will be chosen on the basis of being the best business that has most impressed the judges that do the best for their clients, staff and community.

Start-up Business of the Year
The winner of this award will have shown determination, drive and passion to start and grow a successful business during tough financial times. The winner will have also demonstrated their vision to succeed and overcome many obstacles along the way.

Small Business of the Year (up to 10 employees)
This award is open to all businesses with less than 10 employees that can demonstrate exceptional performance, growth and market leadership.

Medium Business of the Year (10-50 employees)
We are looking for smaller businesses which compete with the ‘big boys’ in every way – except size.  The winner will need to demonstrate a good team spirit among the employees and a strong customer service ethos.

Large Business of the Year (50+ employees)
The winner will have a well-deserved excellent reputation in the community, a record of innovative measures to enhance employee relations and demonstrate a commitment to never fail to deliver on its promises and to meet – and exceed – customer expectations.

Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure
Award to a locally based business that has best demonstrated exceptional financial returns, innovation, strong growth and market leadership in the field of tourism, leisure or hospitality activities.

Employer of the Year
Award for a business that has great staff relations, good staff retention, with excellent training and who cares for their employees. The best company to work for!

Employee/Team of the Year
Award for an exceptional individual/team whose efforts and determination has made an exceptional contribution to a business resulting in a positive gain for the organisation

Star of the Future (age limit 28)
Some people in business have made and indelible mark in their company in the local market, or in their trade on a national scale. Can you or do you know someone that can demonstrate exceptional achievement or performance within their own business or established company?

Education and Training
Can you demonstrate how you have trained your staff and what methods of training were offered and how objectives were met?

Place to Eat
Restaurants, takeaways – all have a chance to be nominated in this category. We’re looking for the a worthy eatery providing great customer service from a quality environment with, of course, consistently fine food. Have fun making your choices!

Retailer of the Year
Award for the retail business that can best demonstrate strong growth, an innovative approach to customer and employee relations together with creativity to enhance sales. This category is open to local independent retailers and to local units of national chains providing they can show how they have impacted on the local community and economy.

Manufacturing & Construction
Award to a company that has best demonstrated exceptional financial returns, innovation, strong growth and market leadership in the field of manufacturing and/or construction.

Going Green
The company to win this award must demonstrate environmental awareness and responsibility in all aspects of its work and output – e.g What steps do you take to be Eco friendly? Do you recycle all waste?  Have you initiated paper banks?

Innovation of the Year
The winner – either a company or an individual – will demonstrate an exceptional ability to think outside the box, whether it is discovering better ways to work, discovering a ground-breaking product, or showing outstanding marketing abilities.

Business Personality of the Year
Outstanding businesses often require outstanding individuals with larger-than-life personalities who show drive, commitment and enthusiasm and never settle for second best, either with their products or in their relations with staff and customers. We are looking for an individual who shows tremendous commitment and innovation, with outstanding leadership and vision and the drive to deliver.

Customer Service
The customer may not always be right but putting the customers’ needs first is vital if any business is to succeed. The winner of this award will be able to demonstrate  an impressive track record  of excellent customer service.

Lifetime Achievement
This award is chosen by the panel of judges, but readers are requested to send in any nominations telling us why this person should win this category.

Readers Choice
Our panel of judges always find it a tough task selecting the winners. It’s impossible to please everyone and the standard of businesses entering is always exceptionally high. So the onus will be on you to vote for your No1 business from our selected shortlist.

The Petersfield Post and Bordon Post have launched the prestigious East Hampshire Business Awards. The awards will mark business excellence and the remarkable work being carried out by firms across the district and nominations are now open for the 19 categories.

You can now start nominating your company or a business which you believe is deserving of a particular prize. The awards will culminate in what will be a key date on the East Hampshire business calendar – the awards ceremony will take place at Old Thorns in Liphook on Thursday, October 17, 2013.

The variety of categories will help to ensure a wide variety of business skills are rewarded – from innovation to industry-leading initiatives, and training to simply being the best business around.

Post editor Graeme Moir said: “It gives me great pleasure to announce that we have launched the East Hampshire Business Awards. These awards will be the ones that every firm in the district will want to get their hands on as they will be recognised as the business awards which really count. Despite the difficult trading conditions which many firms are having to cope with at the moment, there are some real success stories on our doorstep and it is time to celebrate that work and show that East Hampshire is a great place to do business. We look forward to receiving your nominations and I am looking forward to the awards ceremony in October as I am sure that will be a great evening of celebration.”

The awards ceremony will be taking place at Old Thorns on the same day that the first  ever Hampshire 4 Business Show is being staged.

Designed for anyone running a business, looking to start a business or planning to relocate a business in Hampshire, the show is free to attend with no need to register. The exhibitors will cover all aspects of business from stationery and office suppliers to online marketing specialists, graphic designers, accountants, legal experts, business  networks, environmental consultants, logistics, IT services and many more.

For more details visit www.hampshire4business.com.
Full details of how to nominate a business for the awards will be published in next week’s Post.
Each award category and the overall event is looking for sponsorship – for more details contact Helen Watt on 01243 534126

The Categories

A grand total of 19 awards will be presented at the special ceremony at Old Thorns on October 17 and here are the details of each category up for grabs.

Below is the full list of awards and details of what the judging panel will be looking for when they pick their winners. There is a category for every company – whether you wish to be recognised as the best business in the district or your work fits into one of the other categories which looks to reward more specific areas of business.

You can nominate your own company if you wish or perhaps you wish to see a business rewarded for their good work in their industry or the community where they are based. Full details of how you can nominate a business for one of the awards will appear in next week’s Post. Competition for each award is expected to be tough, reflecting the business excellence in the area.

Start-up Business
Have you shown determination, drive and passion to start and grow a successful business during tough financial times? This winner will have also demonstrated their vision to succeed and overcome many obstacles along the way.

Small Business (up to ten employees)
This award is open to all businesses with fewer than ten employees that can demonstrate exceptional performance, growth and market leadership.

Medium Business (ten to 50 employees)
Do you run or know of a smaller business which competes with the ‘big boys’ in every way – except size? This winner will need to demonstrate a good team spirit among the employees and a strong customer service ethos.

Large Business (50-plus employees)
Does your firm have a well–deserved excellent reputation in the community, a record of innovative measures to enhance employee relations and demonstrate a commitment to never fail to deliver on its promises and to meet – and exceed – customer expectations?

Overall Business
This prestigious award will be given by the judges to one of the winners from the business categories above. The company that carries off this award will be chosen on the basis of being the best business that has most impressed the judges that does the best for its clients, staff and community. Employer of the Year Award for a business that has great staff relations, good staff retention, with excellent training and which cares for its employees. The best company to work for!

Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure
Does your business demonstrate exceptional financial returns, innovation, strong growth and market leadership in the field of tourism, leisure or hospitality activities?

Employee/Team of the Year
Do you know an exceptional individual or team whose efforts and determination
have made an exceptional contribution to a business resulting inapositive gain for
the organisation?

Education and Training
Can you demonstrate how you have trained your staff and what methods of training were offered and how objectives were met?

Star of the Future (age limit 28)
Some people in business have made an indelible mark in their company in the local market, or in their trade on a national scale. Can you, or do you know someone who
can demonstrate exceptional achievement or performance within their own business or established company?

Place to Eat
Restaurants, take aways – all have a chance to be nominated in this category. We’re looking for a worthy eatery providing great customer service from a quality environment with, of course, consistently fine food. Have fun making your choices!

Retailer
Award for the retail business that can best demonstrate strong growth, an innovative approach to customer and employee relations together with creativity to enhance sales. This category is open to local independent retailers and to local units of national chains providing they can show how they have impacted on the local community and
economy.

Going Green
The company that wins this award must demonstrate environmental awareness and responsibility in all aspects of its work and output. For example, what steps do you take to be eco friendly? Do you recycle all waste? Have you initiated paper banks?

Innovation
The winner – either a company or an individual – will demonstrate an exceptional ability to think outside the box, whether it is discovering better ways to work, a ground-breaking product, or showing outstanding marketing abilities.

Customer service
The customer may not always be right, but putting the customers’ needs first is vital if any business is to succeed. Can you demonstrate an impressive track record of excellent customer service?

Business Personality
Outstanding businesses often require outstanding individuals with larger-than-life personalities who show drive, commitment and enthusiasm and never settle for second best, either with their products or in their relations with staff and customers. We are looking for an individual who shows tremendous commitment and innovation, with outstanding leadership and vision and the drive to deliver.

Lifetime Achievement Award
This award is chosen by the panel of judges, but readers are requested to send in any nominations telling us why this person should win this category.

Readers’ Choice
Our panel of judges always find it a tough task selecting the winners. It’s impossible to please everyone so the onus will be on you to vote for your number one business from our selected shortlist.

Oustanding Contribution to the Community
We are looking for the business which has put something significant back into the local community through their support of a projector helping to complete a scheme which makes a real difference.

EVERY day of every year, health staff are at work around the clock trying to keep the country as well as possible.
And now it’s time once again to recognise the hard work put in, as we launch the Best of Health Awards 2013.

Now in its fourth year, we are inviting people to start nominating those who have shown tireless care and attention to patients in the health sector. We all have our health heroes, and it’s time to celebrate their work. We’re looking for the unsung heroes, who go that extra mile and make the health service what it is, and recognise them for their hard work.

All you have to do is share your inspiring stories and experiences with staff such as doctors, nurses, dentists, community workers or specialist teams.

NOMINATIONS (closing date for nominations is Friday 5th July)

There are 12 categories, which cover all sectors of the health service, from care in hospitals and surgeries, to care in the community. People can fill out the nomination form here, or email nominations to healthawards@thenews.co.uk.

Once all the nominations are in, a judging panel will draw up a short list, which will be announced in The News.

Mark Waldron, editor of The News, said: ‘We are in the fourth year of these awards, and each year I have been taken aback by the stories I read. Staff always say they never get into the profession for recognition.

‘But that’s what we want to do – and we need you, the readers to nominate these unsung heroes.’

This year, the awards have a headline sponsor – Spofforths Chartered Accounts. The firm is also sponsoring GP Practice of the Year. We’re also inviting companies to sponsor individual awards categories. So far Dental Practice of the Year is sponsored by NatWest; Hospital Nurse of the Year by Wave 105; Hospital Team of the Year by Lalys Pharmacy, and Ambulance Worker of the Year by the University of Portsmouth.

The awards night takes place on Friday, October 25, at the Portsmouth Guildhall.

Any other businesses or organisations that would like to sponsor a category can contact Liz Parker at liz.parker@thenews.co.uk or call (023) 9262 2202.

The categories are:

GP Practice of the Year
(sponsored by Spofforths Chartered Accountants)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Dental Practice of the Year
(sponsored by NatWest)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Pharmacy of the Year
(sponsored by …)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Hospital Doctor of the Year
(sponsored by …)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Hospital Nurse of the Year
(sponsored by Wave 105.2 FM)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Hospital Team of the Year
(sponsored by Lalys Pharmacy)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Mental Health Worker/Team of the Year
(sponsored by Admiral Care)
Winner:
Runner-up:

Community Nurse/Worker of the Year
(sponsored by…)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Ambulance Worker of the Year
(sponsored by School of Health Sciences and Social Work, University of Portsmouth)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Carer of the Year
(sponsored by …)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Midwife of the Year
(sponsored by …)

Winner:
Runner-up:

Unsung Hero
(sponsored by Portsmouth Cultural Trust)

Winner:
Runner-up:

For further information please contact Rosie Morgan on 02392 622207 or email rosie.morgan@thenews.co.uk

Every month we feature the latest nominations in 10 categories designed to highlight the best in community spirit.

But we need YOU to take part.

We want you to nominate your candidate in any of the sections, and the top ones will go forward to a grand final at the end of the year.

In November each year we hold a gala at which the overall winners in each category are honoured.

To suggest a potential winner – not an individual, group or organisation we’ve already featured – fill in the nomination form HERE and tell us who you want to nominate in which category, and why.

Or you can ring reporter Miles O’Leary on (023) 9262 2169 or e-mail him at miles.oleary@thenews.co.uk or send a fax to (023) 9267 3363

The categories

BEST STREET
NEIGHBOURS WHO’VE BANDED TOGETHER AND SHOWN COMMUNITY SPIRIT

GREEN is the colour of the neighbours on Paulsgrove’s Allaway Avenue.

Residents have worked with the city council to open a new centre at 147 Allaway Avenue, Portsmouth. The centre is home to the Green Neighbours project, which aims to develop a group of residents to become volunteers and share information about energy saving and recycling with people in their area.

Talking about the project, Louise Ellison, greener homes project manager, said: ‘Paulsgrove residents can easily find out how to save money on their fuel bills, reduce food waste and improve their recycling by having a dedicated local team in their community.

There are some great opportunities for residents to volunteer, or just pop in, discover more about what we do, and find out about upcoming events.’

The project holds regular events to help people learn new skills, including recently making bird feeders to help birds survive the cold winter months.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE
A BUSINESS OR EMPLOYEE WHO BRIGHTENS UP CUSTOMERS’ LIVES

WHEN a new coffee shop opened in West Street, Fareham, one of the cafe’s top priorities was to create a relaxed, community hub.

The coffee shop, Imbizo, is part of FarehamCommunityChurch and is run largely by volunteers. Any profits it makes go to charity and manager Nick Scott is always looking at ways to bring a smile to his customer’s faces. All the profits go to local homeless charity Two Saints and to a charity that builds slum schools in India.

It displays art work from local artists, holds music sessions from upcoming artists and is always interested to hear ways of making the place more popular, and therefore raising more money for charity.

Its community focus doesn’t mean that it compromise on quality, with volunteers making delicious homemade cakes.

The cafe is located underneath Fareham Community Church on West Street.

BEST BUSINESS
A FIRM WHICH HAS DONE SOMETHING SPECIAL TO HELP THE COMMUNITY

AN AVIATION company has been going the extra mile to help out a special school.

Staff at H and S Aviation, based in Hilsea, have climbed mountains, renovated classrooms and even provided a Father Christmas.

The company donated £10,000 to Rachel Madocks School, in Eagle Avenue, Cowplain, so it can buy two top-of-the-range plasma screens.

Coleen Smith, business manager at the school, said: ‘The staff at H and S have been tremendous. They have supported us so much and they have become friends of the school.

‘We are so very grateful to them.’

BBA Aviation is the owner of H and S and decided to give the company £10,000 to donate to the school.

Phil Jupp, operations co-ordinator at H and S Aviation, said: ‘The school does an amazing job in very tough circumstances.

‘It’s been a pleasure to raise the money for them.’

BEST VOLUNTEER
SOMEONE WITH A RECORD OF SELFLESS WORK

THE hard work and dedication of Chris Walker ensures the Titchfield Speedwatch scheme is operational and out on the village’s roads every week.

Retired Mr Walker organises a group nicknamed the ‘Titchfield Posse’ who operate hand-held devices to monitor speeding drivers in a scheme called Speedwatch. A roadside device shows motorists what speed they are travelling at and, if it is above the limit, the registered owners are sent a letter telling them they have been seen exceeding the limit.

Speedwatch was featured in The News when a nearby scheme appealed for volunteers. It transpired that the Titchfield scheme has a merry band of 12 volunteers, who take turns to take to the streets in shifts in groups of three, all co-ordinated by Mr Walker.

Ward councillor Geoff Hockley said that Mr Walker plays a vital role in making the Titchfield successful.

BEST SCHOOL
ONE WHICH EXCELLED OR MADE A CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY

YOUNGSTERS from Lee-on-the-Solent Junior School were so fed up with seeing litter blighting their beautiful town, they went out and tackled the problem head-on.

A group of Junior PCSOs from Lee-on-the-Solent Junior School conducted a litter-pick, led by PCSO Brad Adams, a member of Hampshire Constabulary’s Alver Valley Safer Neigbourhoods team. They donned high-visibility jackets and spent the day picking up all kinds of litter, including beer cans, plastic bags and sweet wrappers. The children, aged between nine and 12, met at Lee Community Centre in Twyford Drive before patrolling the area around Megson Park and Common Barn Lane.

Graham Smith of Lee-on-the-Solent Litteraction and Marine Conservation Society, who regularly organises litter-picks and beach surveys in the town, joined the patrol.

SPIRIT OF YOUTH
A YOUNG PERSON WHO HAS SHOWN EXCEPTIONAL QUALITIES

WHEN Tyler Hallawell, 11, thought he heard a burglar at his home, he stayed calm and called police. He then alerted his neighbours to what was happening in Shawford Grove, Leigh Park.

Tyler came home in the afternoon from Park Community School, in Middle Park Way, Havant, when he heard his dog barking and saw the conservatory window was smashed. Quick-thinking Tyler’s actions meant that police were on the scene quickly and were able to make an arrest ten minutes later.

Tyler, who wants to be a policeman or join the army, said: ‘I was shocked, angry and nervous about what had happened. Leaving the house and calling 999 was the first thing that came to my mind.’

The burglar stole a PlayStation, Xbox, jewellery and an iPad.

BEST GARDEN
A PRIVATE OR PUBLIC PLACE WHICH REALLY ENHANCES AN AREA

A HIDDEN garden at Haslar is helping war veterans to recover.

Magical, secret and historical, the garden at the Royal Hospital Haslar offers a sanctuary for veterans.

A small group of volunteers called Shore Leave Haslar are out in all weathers maintaining the walled garden.

The garden is located in a quiet corner of the 63-acre former Royal Haslar hospital grounds in Gosport and helps those rehabilitating from post traumatic stress disorder, along with a number of other problems brought on by war.

The community group started in August 2011 and has turned the garden into a truly tranquil place that allows veterans to enjoy the recuperative benefits of garden therapy. The group aims to make the garden sustainable by planting vegetable and flower beds with the ultimate aim of selling the produce.

Chairman Carol Wincott is the driving force behind the project.

CARE OF THE ENVIRONMENT
PERSON OR GROUP COMMITTED TO ENVIRONMENTAL WORK

KIND-HEARTED conservationists have spent hours clearing scrubland at a beauty spot.

The Conservation Volunteers are leading a project to maintain Catherington Down, a protected area close to Horndean.

Eva Laysan from The Conservation Volunteers said: ‘We are reducing the scrub on Catherington Down to encourage the wild flowers that grow on the site. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and we are cutting the scrub because it has grown in quite big clumps. We are reducing them into smaller clumps to allow more light for the wild flowers.’

The future of the site hangs in the balance because Horndean Parish Council recently voted not to take ownership of it, despite two years of negotiations with Hampshire County Council. Tuesday sessions are from 10am to 3pm. Meet in the car park opposite Catherington School, in Catherington Lane.

BEST ART/COMMUNITY PROJECT
A VENTURE THAT HAS MADE A REAL DIFFERENCE TO LOCAL LIFE

WAITING for a train in Emsworth is a pleasant experience thanks to the hard graft of the village’s Residents’ Association.

The group have revamped the village’s 165-year-old railway station. They have reopened the waiting rooms, restoring them back to their original Victorian beauty. A toilet has been added for the first time.

The scheme cost around £25,000, with most of the cash coming from Southern Railway, as well as contributions from SEEDA, the Residents’ Association and Hampshire County Council. Southern Railway also added a ramp to the eastbound platform.

The former chairman of the ERA, Lorraine Clode, has been the driving force behind the project.

Lorraine has been a prominent public figure in Havant borough, fighting for a number of causes, whether it be on housing developments or revamping the war memorial shelter in St Peter’s Square.

PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT
SOMEBODY WHO HAS RISEN TO A CHALLENGE

MUM-OF-THREE Lisa Rowland squeezed in 40 different sports and activities in the 40 days before her 40th birthday at the end of January.

Lisa came up with the madcap challenge to mark her birthday, and in doing so raised hundreds of pounds for Lioness Cubs Home, an orphanage in Kenya and Macmillan Cancer Support.

The 39-year-old, from Hunts Pond Road in Titchfield Common, has done a wide range of sports including Tai Chi, horseriding, tap dancing and golf.

She said: ‘I wouldn’t consider myself very sporty, I used to do aerobics, but that’s about it, and I wanted to do something challenging.I thought about doing a triathlon at first, but couldn’t find anyone who wanted to do all three sports with me, so then I came up with this idea. I wanted to complete it in time for my 40th birthday at the end of the month so it makes it more of a celebration.

In association with ‘The Mumpreneurs Networking Club‘ the event will be held at Hilton Avisford Park Hotel, Arundel on 22 November, 7.00pm till late!

Tickets selling fast; make sure you book your ticket early to avoid disappointment!

Categories are:

Inspirational Woman:

To recognise a woman who has inspired others with that extra special achievement: whether it be overcoming illness or difficulties or devoting their time to a worthy charity. It could be behind the scenes or in the public eye, this person should be an inspiration in terms of her attitude, work and life.

Success Story:

Do you know someone who deserves an award for their outstanding achievement – whether that success has come at home, at work, or with their hobbies or pastimes?

Online Business:

For an e-business that operates solely online or inspiring digital individual.

Woman in Community Charity or Voluntary Sector:

Working in the voluntary sector, community or a charity, this woman could be a carer, fundraiser or simply someone who sacrifices their time for others.

Business Woman:

This woman can be in the business field who has shown determination, drive and has made a real difference in her working environment.

Woman in Fashion:

Sassy, vibrant and ‘in touch’ with real women’s needs, the Woman of the Year in Fashion has to have a real sense of style and an eye for that X factor.

Mum of the Year:

Mum of the Year is a woman who is outstanding mother, leader and role model.

Woman in Arts:

This can be a woman in the performing arts, music, the written word or visual medium, whether it’s behind the scenes or in public……. a woman who has truly maximised her talents.

Woman in Education:

Whether this is a teacher, classroom assistant, dinner lady or caretaker, we are looking for someone working in education who has gone that extra mile for children, teenagers or students and their education.

Woman in Uniform:

She can be any woman working in any area of the health sector as a nurse, doctor, medical technician or any of the many roles across this sector.

Sportswoman:

This award sets out to recognise a keen sportswoman who has either achieved much herself or has successfully inspired others in sport.

Woman to Watch:

An exciting up-and-coming woman from any field.

Hair & Beauty Award:

Women don’t trust just anyone when it comes to hair and beauty – they demand someone who has something special. Do you know that person? What makes them different? Nominate them for our award.

Woman of Courage:

Courage comes in many forms. Some women have battled against enormous odds at home or at work. Let us know of these achievements so we can highlight real courage.

Young Woman Awards:

Some women aged under 25 have already had the experiences to last a lifetime. Some have achieved a huge amount in a short space of time at home, at work, in sport, or in their hobbies. Who deserves wider recognition for their achievements?

Overall Woman of the Year:  Headline Sponsor – Euphoric

This winner will be chosen by the panel of judges from all of the category winners. They will be looking for that special person who deserves the highest accolade.

NOMINATIONS COMING SOON – Please watch this space

Rules and Conditions

1. The awards are open to individuals, partnerships, organisations and businesses based in or having a significant presence in the circulation area of the Observer Series (Chichester, Bognor Regis, Midhurst and Petworth), Worthing Herald Series (Worthing, Lancing, Shoreham, Steyning and Littlehampton) along with West Sussex County Times, Mid Sussex Times, Crawley Observer and Sussex Express.

2. Entry is by authorised entry form only. The form itself provides for identifying information only. Entrants are required to submit whatever statements, testimonials and records they wish for the relevant category. The judges reserve the right to seek more information or clarification of submissions.

3. Contenders may enter themselves or be nominated by another.

4. No responsibility will be accepted by the organisers for any material sent or any entry lost or delayed in the post. Entries cannot be returned.

5. Entries will be judged by a panel appointed by The Observer Series and The Worthing Herald and to include representatives of the main sponsor.

6. The winning entries will be announced at an awards ceremony to be held on November 22, 2012.

7. A condition of entry is that entrants co-operate with the media and in particular with The Observer Series, The Worthing Herald, West Sussex County Times, Mid Sussex Times, Crawley Observer and Sussex Express.  for the publication of editorial about their business (whether before or after the announcement of the winners) and also with any other media coverage that may be given to their business.

8. The organisers will, within the scope of these rules, treat all entries as given in confidence but can accept no responsibility for any failure of confidentiality. Entrants should take appropriate steps, prior to entering the competition, to protect those aspects of their entry.

9. The main sponsor is not eligible to enter any category. Category sponsors may not enter the category they have supported.

10. Individuals and organisations may enter more than one relevant category. Each entry should be on a separate entry form.

11. Entries should be submitted to arrive no later than October 14th, 2013. Entries received after that date may not be considered.

12. There can be no appeal against the decision of the organisers – represented by the editor of The Observer Series, The Worthing Herald, West Sussex County Times, Mid Sussex Times, Crawley Observer and Sussex Express - or of any judge or panel appointed by them; their decisions must be accepted as final in respect of all matters concerning this event, including the interpretation of these rules and conditions.

Observer Community Awards will be held again at Butlins in Bognor Regis in the Centre Stage.  The awards will take place on 12th December, so make sure you save this date in your diaries! Doors open 6.30pm, entry is free so bring all the family and friends for a fabulous and fun evening.

All the ways you can nominate this year…

NOMINATIONS for this year’s awards will be open until mid-July. Voting will take place shortly before our free-of-charge awards ceremony later this year. If there is someone you think deserves recognition in this year’s awards you can nominate them by filling in the form in either Chichester, Bognor Regis or Midhurst and Petworth Series or emailing awards@chiobserver.co.uk If you are filling in the form, please use block capitals for all names and include contact details for both nominees and yourself. This year, there is also a new way to nominate via our Community Awards Facebook Page. Just go to www.facebook.com/ObserverCommunityAwards   We want to hear about your stories so get nominating!

Categories

Best Volunteer -  Shirley Henry Award

There is an army of volunteers out there, putting their considerable energies into helping run community groups, organise events and provide vital caring duties. Which of those giving up their time most deserves recognition?

Best Community Person

Recognising those people who put their all into the local community, making a huge effort to make where we live a better place.

Mini Hero

Know a youngster who is an inspiration? Let us know, whether they have done something for charity, overcome personal hurdles or just been consistently kind and thoughtful to those around them.

Best School

Schools are more than just statistics and exam results… The best schools are the ones which play a vital role in the development of their pupils and also play a key part in the community.

School Star

Teachers, caretakers, dinner ladies or your lollipop lady: know a vital member of staff without whom your school would be a much poorer place?

Best Coach

Behind every successful sporting star or team there is a dedicated coach putting in maximum effort and hours to get the best out of everyone.

Sports Team of the Year

Across the Observer area there are teams of all ages and abilities working hard together to get results – which deserves our award?

Best Sports person

From marathon runners to would-be Olympic fencers, there is a wealth of talented individuals playing sport in our patch. Let’s hear about them!

Hero to Animals

Helping those creatures who can’t help themselves, there is a dedicated army of animal lovers who care for our furry or feathered friends.

Special Recognition

Whether it be one amazing act or years of dedication, this award is especially for those community champions who need to have their efforts recognised.

Best Local Voluntary/Charity Group

Playing an ever-increasing role in society, charities and voluntary groups are vital to the wellbeing of our local community so we want to celebrate their hard work.

Outstanding Bravery

Bravery takes many forms. Whether battling an illness, standing up to other people or risking all for others, who is the boldest and bravest star in your area?

Super Senior

Determined not to let age get in their way, these super seniors are active in the community and give a vital voice to the over-60s.

Voice of the People

Ensuring others are heard, these voices of the people could be elected officials, volunteers, members of community groups or very vocal campaigners fighting for our rights.

Best Community Event

Flower shows, fetes and family fun days… Without these non-commercial events, our communities would be a duller place. Which is your favourite?

Biggest Contribution to Arts in the Community

Bringing arts to the community, these groups  and individuals work hard to make their art accessible, as well as bringing a dash of culture to the wider population.

Observer Award for Special Achievement -
Rolls Royce - Principal Sponsor

Chosen by the Observer, this award recognises the special achievements or effort by an individual or a group.

Rolls-Royce ‘delighted’ to continue awards support

THIS year’s principal sponsor and sponsor of our Observer Award for Special Achievement is Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Andrew Ball, from the company, said: “Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is delighted to continue its sponsorship of the Observer Community Awards,  particularly in the tenth-anniversary year of the company’s manufacturing plant and head office at Goodwood. “As one of the largest employers in the area, we take our responsibility to the community very seriously and we welcome the opportunity to support such an enormously worthy cause.”

Let’s team up to make it the best awards yet

SPONSORS are a key part of our award’s success every year. Without their backing we wouldn’t be able to put on this celebration of local heroes. There are still a host of categories up for grabs for sponsorship so, if you own a local business, why not get in touch and become part of this great event. All the categories are listed. Anyone interested in sponsoring an award can get in touch with Claire Carter by emailing claire.carter@chiobserver.co.uk Alternatively, call Claire on 01243 534147 or 07912 671045

Observer editor Colin Channon said: “This is a great chance to get involved with one of our most popular events of the year, not to mention one of my favourites. Let’s shout about what’s good in our area.

Please note any nominations after midnight on Saturday 4th May will not be counted.

Rules and Conditions

1. The awards are open to individuals, partnerships, organisations and businesses based in or having a significant presence in the circulation area of The News, namely south-east Hampshire and the Chichester area of West Sussex.

2. Entry is by authorised entry form only. The form itself provides for identifying information only. Entrants are required to submit whatever statements, testimonials and records they wish for the relevant category. The judges reserve the right to seek more information or clarification of submissions.

3. Contenders may enter themselves or be nominated by another.

4. No responsibility will be accepted by the competition organisers for any material sent or any entry lost or delayed in the post. Entries cannot be returned.

5. Entries will be judged by a panel appointed by The News and to include representatives of the main sponsor and of category sponsors.

6. The winning entries will be announced at an awards ceremony to be held on Saturday 15th of June 2013.

7. A condition of entry is that entrants co-operate with the media and in particular with The News for the publication of a story about their business (whether before or after the announcement of the winners) and also with any other media coverage that may be given to their business.

8. The organisers will, within the scope of these rules, treat all entries as given in confidence but can accept no responsibility for any failure of confidentiality. Entrants should take appropriate steps, prior to entering the competition, to protect those aspects of their entry that may be patentable or registrable as designs or are otherwise secret and all other intellectual property rights.

9. The main sponsor is not eligible to enter any category. Category sponsors may not enter the category they have supported.

10. Individuals and organisations may enter more than one relevant category. Each entry should be on a separate entry form.

11. Entries should be submitted to arrive no later than 4th of May 2013. Entries received after that date will not be considered.

12. There can be no appeal against the decision of the organisers – represented by the editor of The News – or of any judge or panel appointed by them; their decisions must be accepted as final in respect of all matters concerning this competition, including the interpretation of these rules and conditions. Should the organisers consider insufficient entries have been received, they reserve the right to reduce the number of prizes to be awarded. Normal News competition rules apply.

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Amy attended Raphael’s Independent Private School in Essex. Being the model pupil, Amy was Head Girl and excelled at French. Amy left school at the age of sixteen with full GCSE qualifications and went on to BrentwoodAcademy where she received a Level Two and Level Three Diploma as a beauty specialist.

Following her appearance on TOWIE, Amy signed with CAN Associates Ltd in November 2010 after Managing Director, Claire Powell, saw something special in her. This was a huge turning point in Amy’s career and she is now a tabloid and paparazzi favourite. Model, businesswoman and qualified beautician Amy is now a regular feature in celebrity magazines and is admired and recognized for her sense of style, personality, ‘Essex’ vocabulary and the popularizing of ‘vajazzaling.’

Amy appears daily in the national newspapers and magazines and her appeal resulted in shooting for the prestigious Vogue Magazine in October 2011. Her broad press appeal has also meant that Amy has her very own weekly column in New! Magazine.
In October 2011 Amy launched her very own Clothing Collection named ‘Amy Childs’ Collection.’ Amy launched this debut Autumn/Winter clothing range at Britain & Ireland’s Next Top Model Live at London’s ExCel Centre which saw thousands of visitors wanting to be the very first to see her new venture into the fashion world. After the fantastic success of Amy’s sell-out debut clothing range, she launched her eagerly anticipated Spring/Summer 2012 range in March 2012 at a star-studded event and catwalk show. This collection has been incredibly successful seeing many styles selling out – the range was also featured on the coveted Cosmopolitan Online. Amy’s Spring/Summer 2012 range is so popular it is stocked in fashion boutiques across the Country and online fashion boutiques, including the largest online retailer in the UK, ‘Next.’  In September 2012 Amy launched her third clothing collection for Autumn/Winter 2012/2013.

Amy has been keeping incredibly busy in 2012 and the future is looking very bright for Miss Childs. On top of the above, Amy has had her 2012 Official Amy Childs Calendar on the shelves, a brand new chart-topping Fitness DVD ‘Amy Childs’ Fit In 30 Days’ and she now has well over one million twitter followers.

Amy launched her swimwear range in the Summer of 2012 and August 2012 saw Amy launching her very first fragrance named ‘Amy Childs’ where she toured the Country promoting the perfume and meeting her fans.

With all that Amy has achieved so far it is hard to believe that Amy is still only 22 years old!

Visit the official Amy Childs website at www.amychildsofficial.co.uk