Get your entries in

The annual awards, organised by Warwickshire County Council and supported by Advantage West Midlands, are open to all Coventry & Warwickshire businesses who either serve or produce food and drink, including chefs, local producers, pubs, restaurants, cafes, as well as attractions and garden centres with their own restaurants or cafes. Businesses have until Tuesday 30 June to enter the competition. Entrants can apply online via the website www.foodanddrink2009.co.uk. It is free for businesses to participate in the awards, apart from covering the cost of the judge's meal. Entrants must complete the form, attach samples of their menu, promotional material, a list of suppliers and state in no more than 250 words why they deserve to win. Businesses must use the criteria for the awards before they submit their entry. A maximum of five businesses per category will be shot-listed, in relation to their quality, excellence in customer service and innovative use of local produce. Richard Drakeley, tourism development officer at the County Council, said: "Despite the slow down in the economy, we know that many food and drink businesses have shown great dedication and hard work to pull through – and even succeed against the odds. "Now more than ever is the time to shine and send out a positive message about your business. We know that by winning an award, businesses benefit in so many ways, from the marketing and PR surrounding the awards, to the increase in staff and the invaluable feedback they receive from the judges." The winners will be announced at a Gala Awards Dinner to be held at the Ardencote Manor Hotel on 21 September.