BUSINESSES in Redditch and Bromsgrove built on tourism have an opportunity to shine, by entering a countywide competition that could lead on to national recognition.

Entry is now open for the Visit Worcestershire Awards for Excellence 2015.

A spokesman said: "The event will provide an opportunity for businesses to demonstrate brilliance and exhibit the quality of tourism that our fine county has to offer.

"There will be various categories of awards available including Best Sustainable Tourism Award, Best Festivals and Events Award and Best Bed and Breakfast Award. Should your business win one of these prestigious honours, you will have the opportunity to win at the 2015 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence."

The winners will be announced at St Andrews Town Hotel in Droitwich later this year.

Mike Ashton, chief executive of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce said: “The occasion will provide an opportunity for local business to honour their quality on a local and national scale while striving forward for further development."

Application forms can be downloaded at at visitworcestershire.org/awards.

Applications must be sent to tourism@visitworcestershire.org by September 14.