PROUD businesses have been shortlisted for the prestigious 2014 Halton Business and Tourism Awards.

The World can today reveal who is in the running for each category after a record number of entries has been received.

Halton Chamber of Commerce and Halton Council will announce the winners at a gala dinner at The Holiday Inn, Runcorn on Friday, April 11.

Paula Cain, chief executive of the chamber, said: "Winning business awards raises your profile, enhances your reputation and attracts new business.

“The kudos of winning one of the Halton Business and Tourism Awards goes way beyond receiving a trophy. It can help potential customers choose you over your competitors, making you more profitable.”

The shortlisted candidates are:

Apprentice/Young Person of the Year 2014
Jessica Robinson, Inventya
Jordan Smith, Youth Graffiti
Marcus Burke, Halton Borough Council
Michelle Wynn, Evolution Dental Studios

Retailer of the Year 2014
Curiosity Book Shop
Neil and Barker
Blush
Terrys Boutique

Entrepreneur of the Year 2014
Anna Jenkins, Silky Bouquets
Aldo do Leonibus, Inventya
Steve Swift, Aerelink
Neil Lancaster, Deal With It

Exporter of the Year 2014
Ineos ChlorVinyls Ltd
TALL Security Print Ltd
Conren
Deal With it

Positive Environmental Impact
Centrol Recycling Group Ltd
Arvia Technology Ltd
Novah Ltd
Prime Industries

Visitor Inspire
Dan Quinton, Everglades Park Hotel
Phill Day, Catalyst Science Discovery Centre
Customer Service Team, Runcorn Ski Centre
Conference and Events Sales, Holiday Inn

Outstanding Customer Service in the Visitor Economy
Sally Jones, Holiday Inn
Rachel Grogan, Everglades Park Hotel
Lynn Steadman, Catalyst Science Discovery Centre
Andrew Spokes, The Brindley

Astmoor and Halebank BID Business of the Year 2014
Mantar Engineering
James Troop and Co
Hough Green Garage
Freight First

Innovation Award 2014
Select Security
Mudguard Tricycles
Aerelink
Media and Digital

Customer Focus Award 2014
Essence of Life
JDC Ceramics
Courier Post
Holiday Inn

Business of the Year 2014
Mantar Engineering
Hough Green Garage
Prime Industries
Ineos ChlorVinyls

The shortlist for The New Business of the Year has not yet been announced.