ALL eyes will be turning to Torquay next week for the highlight of the business calendar — the fifth South Devon Business Excellence Awards.

More companies than ever before have entered this year and judges said the standards were high, despite the tough trading times.

Some of those companies have significantly increased their turnover and recruited new staff during the past year, boosting the local economy.

The calibre of the awards is reflected in its sponsors, headed by Torbay Development Agency, which include main partner South Devon College, hosts Riviera International Conference Centre and the award sponsors.

The awards are organised by the Herald Express, and involve a great deal of collaboration with many local partner organisations including Torbay Development Agency, South West Innovation Centres, South Devon College, local Chamber of Commerces and the Federation of Small Business.

The awards give public recognition for often unsung success and also act as a powerful marketing tool. The number and standard of the entries was exceptionally high with the most popular category being Best Business Growth.

Herald Express acting editor Jim Parker said: "The business awards have grown and grown, and this year's finals night promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

"The calibre of entries has been extremely high and I know our panel of judges have had some difficult decisions to make.

"It shows that, despite these challenging times, there is a resilience out in the business community. The awards are there to recognise and honour that determination, grit and innovation. I would like to thank all our sponsors and partners who have made this event possible."

Michelle Pugh, sales director of the Herald Express, said: "As we prepare to celebrate some of the most outstanding businesses throughout South Devon, our sincere thanks must go to the Torbay Development Agency who are a superb headline sponsor investing in local businesses in many ways and to South Devon College who have made the awards happen in previous years, and have been our main partners for this, the fifth South Devon Business Excellence Awards.

"Thanks must also go to our category sponsors, without whom the event could not have taken place. The RICC will be a great host venue. Angela George from IMS Marketing has been a great asset in the project. Our thanks must also extend to the judging panel."