HIGH-FLYING companies across East Lancashire are being urged to apply for the 'Oscars' of the business world.

The organisers of the 2005 Queen's Awards for Enterprise insist that small entrepreneurs have as much chance as the region's industrial giants to win the UK's highest accolade for outstanding success.

Winners from East Lancashire this year were Altham-based component manufacturer BMP Europe and specialist textile firm Panaz, of Fence, which manufactures flame-retardant fabrics for hotels and cruise ships.

Other local successes have included Promethean, of Blackburn; Flexipol Packaging, Haslingden; and Shackerley Holdings, Chorley, which manufactures DIY products.

Stephen Brice, acting Queen's Awards secretary, said: "Over the years the North West has produced many worthy winners.

"But we know there are many more talented firms out there.

"Any firm of merit can enter - and size is irrelevant.

"There's a misconception that only big companies win Queen's Awards.

"But nearly a half of the 2004 winners have fewer than 50 employees and a score have fewer than 10."

Any type of business unit can apply for a Queen's Award in one or more of three categories: International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development. Minimum requirements are that entrants employ at least two people, are UK-based and are high achievers in their field."

The prestige of being associated with The Queen's Awards provides winners with a valuable promotional and marketing tool in an increasingly competitive domestic and global economy.

Would-be Queen's Awards winners should phone 0870 513 4486 for an application form.

The deadline for this year's awards is October 31.