APPLICATIONS for the 2018 Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are now open. Businesses have two weeks to apply to be considered.

Now in its 52nd year, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are among the most respected business awards in the country, recognising and celebrating outstanding achievements by UK businesses in the fields of Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development, and Promoting Opportunity. Winners are invited to attend a reception at Buckingham Palace.

Research shows that 73 per cent of previous winners have reported an increase in international sales after winning a Queen’s Award/

Previous winners across the North-East include Hexham-based RED Engineering.

Businesses can apply online at www .gov.uk/queens-awards-for-enterprise/ how-to-apply.

Entries must be made by 12pm on September 1.