AWARDS celebrating business in the North-East will be launched in the new year.

The North East England Chamber of Commerce has organised a new programme of regional business award competitions, and will launch the Chamber Business Awards and Chamber Inspiring Female Awards.

The former will feature categories such as best leader, exporter, use of technology, family business, high growth achievement and e commerce, while the latter awards will celebrate inspirational women with categories such as best employer, apprentice, employer, and business leader.

James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East England Chamber of Commerce, said: “We have brilliant businesses and individuals in our region and these awards will celebrate everything they do, on a daily basis, to grow our economy.

“The honours will showcase examples of a real determination to succeed, no matter what occurs and how our region’s businesses always punch about their weight. I urge all our members to enter and share their brilliant stories.”

The official launch of the chamber awards will take place in January.

Heats will be held in April and May with regional categories being North of Tyne, South of Tyne/Wearside/County Durham, and Tees Valley/North Yorkshire.

The final for the Inspiring Females Awards will be in May and the overall chamber award grand final and summer ball will be in June.