THE cream of the crop of businesses in the east Cotswolds is to be honoured at an awards evening next week.

The Fairford and Lechlade Business Club Awards Ceremony Dinner is being held on Friday, January 30 at 7.30pm at Coots Restaurant, South Cerney.

Conservative party leader David Cameron MP is set to be the special guest at the awards but can not confirm his attendance until the last minute.

Chris Roberts, administrator for the Club, said: "The annual Awards Ceremony recognises the achievements of businesses in this area and is proud to applaud the contribution made by business members to the community.

"Members are very supportive of their own and try to shop and use local as much as possible."

The event has been sponsored by the Standard, Business Link, Cotswold Woollen Weavers, Intel, the RAFCTE and The Raven Group.

Businesses will hear if they have been successful in winning one of the five categories; Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year, New Business, Innovation and Outstanding Business Student of the Year.

Judging for the awards took place last Wednesday at the offices of St James Place in Cirencester and will be presented to the winners at the gala dinner.

Richard Martin of Cotswold Woollen Weavers, Tristan Wilkinson of Intel Corporation, Simon Evans of The Raven Gour (Lakes by Yoo), Grant Cozens of Business Link and Tim Prince of The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises (RIAT) make up the judging panel.

Sonia Harris, director of St James’ Place, was also one of the judges, who all agreed that the standard of business acumen in the area is very high and, in some cases, the decision was too close to call.

Mr Cozens said that he was very impressed with the student entries and they should all be congratulated on their efforts.

"If these are the sort of budding entrepreneurs that we can look to in the future, then there must still be hope for the survival of United Kingdom plc."

For more information on the Fairford and Lechlade Business Club call Chris Roberts on 01285 712150 or email chris@cotswoldwireless.co.uk