The largest business awards dedicated to women outside of London have opened for entries.

The Enterprise Vision Awards are designed to highlight the achievements and innovations of the North West’s women in business.

Last year's winners included Kirsty Mackenzie, managing director of Lakeland Inns, based in Ulverston.

Nominees included Samantha Gargett, of Elton Business Support, in Penrith, and Julia Clifford, of iCan Health and Fitness CIC, Carlisle.

This year, there are 19 categories to enter including four new awards for family business, franchisee, charity and employee.

Founder Coral Horn said: “The EVAs bring together women from businesses of all sectors and sizes.

“The whole process from start to finish creates a buzz of excitement across the North West.

“The show of support for women from colleagues, customers, family, friends and even competitors is a fabulous thing to behold.

“Widely recognised as the premier business awards for women, winning an EVA will shine the spotlight on your brand and can be a catalyst for growth and sales.

“If you know an amazing woman who you think deserves to be recognised for her outstanding work, nominate her now, it will make her day.”

Entries for the awards are now open to all businesswomen in the North West.

Free information events are also being held where entrants can find out how they could become the next EVA winner.

Entries can be made via the award’s website www.enterprisevisionawards.co.uk

The winners will be announced at the 2020 Enterprise Vision Awards ceremony which will take place on Friday September 25 at The Winter Gardens in Blackpool.