Finalists have been named in the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2022 as excitement mounts ahead of the big night at Reaseheath College.

The prestigious ceremony, in its 25th year, always creates a buzz across South Cheshire as businesses of all sizes wait to hear who will be crowned this year's champions.

Now judging is underway as the Chamber prepares to unveil its business stars on Friday, November 18.

This year has seen an encouraging increase in the number of start-up businesses entering the awards highlighting what a hot-bed of entrepreneurial talent South Cheshire remains despite the economic crisis.

In the running for awards are many new Chamber members and several previous winners such as Wistaston-based Motherwell Cheshire, specialist work-related learning provider Safe Opportunities of Crewe, care provider Right at Home South Cheshire and the Aqueduct Marina, Nantwich.

The finalists are:

Ambassador of the Year: Aqueduct Marina and Crewe Market Hall.

Apprentice of the Year: Joshua Hallam (Amplo Group), Connor Smith (Cheshire College South & West), Mia Jennings (Everybody Health & Leisure), Matilda Turner (Mental Health Charter), Kathryn Bennett (Mid Cheshire Hospitals) and Adam Simcock, (WR Partners).

Contribution to the Community: Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, Everybody Health & Leisure, The Wishing Well and Motherwell Cheshire CIO.

Employer of the Year: Atherton & Associates Wealth Management Ltd, Everybody Health & Leisure and Right at Home South Cheshire.

Excellence in Collaboration: Jo Jo's Day Nursery, Safe Opportunities and The Wishing Well.

Excellence in Customer Service: Everything Dinosaur, Green Future Box Ltd, Optimum Pay Group, Right at Home South Cheshire and Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa.

Start Up Business of the Year: Griggs Boutique Bathrooms, KR Fleet Solutions Ltd, Platinum Construction, Sales Geek Cheshire East Ltd and Trinity Create Ltd.

Finalists are featured in a souvenir brochure and those pipped at the post will receive Highly Commended certificates and a logo to use on their marketing material.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman said: "Every year the calibre of entries is extremely high and this year has been no exception.

"We have a fantastic range of finalists all hoping to be called to the winner's podium. Win or lose, they can all be proud of the contribution they make. We are looking forward to another memorable night at Reaseheath College."

The flagship event has attracted generous sponsorship from high profile South Cheshire companies and organisations.

Award sponsors are: Assurant, Bentley Motors, Cheshire College South & West, Cheshire Connect, Cheshire East Council, Construction Linx, Hibberts, KPI Recruiting Ltd, Reaseheath College Rhino Safety and South Cheshire Development Agency Ltd.

Trinity Create is sponsoring the Main Drinks Reception and Optimum Pay Group, the VIP Drinks Reception.

For more on the Business Awards go to sccci.co.uk/business-awards/2022-awards