Businesses all across Leicestershire have shown resilience and determination this past year, intent on supporting the local community with their ingenuity and passion.

To ensure they all get the recognition they deserve, the , in association with , is returning bigger than ever.

Entries for the Hospitality Innovation Award, sponsored by , close on Friday, May 28 so don't miss your chance to scoop the special title.

If your business is in the hospitality sector and has adapted to meet the challenging Covid-19 restrictions, . Judges will be looking for businesses that have transformed their delivery and eat-in services, demonstrated dedication to adopting new technologies, and shown commitment to providing a safe and pleasurable dining experience.

Sponsors and finalists will enjoy a drinks and canapes evening on Tuesday, July 6 ahead of the prestigious live ceremony on Thursday, September 16. Taking place live at Maher Centre, our business elite will be reunited for a night of glitz and glamour, celebration and commendations. For more information, take a look at the online hub and for tickets, contact Michelle Roberts, mroberts@championsukplc.com.

The are lucky to have five headline sponsors this year: , , , and .

Business Editor at LeicestershireLive and BusinessLive, Tom Pegden said: "It was such a shame when last year's awards had to be cancelled, but that was nothing compared to the issues so many of the county's businesses went through in 2020 and continue to have to deal with now.

"So, it's all the more important to celebrate the achievements of everyone out there, from those that have had to make tough decisions to others that have adapted and thrived in the new economic reality.

"It would be flippant to say the consequences of the pandemic are behind us. It will take months if not years for the country to get back to normal. But events such as these awards are one step on the road to getting back to some sort of normality.

"I'm really looking forward to the night and catching up with old friends and colleagues - and celebrating the brilliant businesses out there in Leicester and Leicestershire."

Here are the categories for the :

Company of the Year - Sponsored by

SME Business of the Year - Sponsored by

Employer of the Year - Sponsored by

Business Entrepreneur of the Year - Sponsored by

Excellence in Science & Technology - Sponsored by

Excellence in Manufacturing Award - Sponsored by

Contribution to the Community Award - Sponsored by

Not-For-Profit-Organisation Award - Sponsored by

Excellence in Innovation Award - Sponsored by

Family Business of the Year - Sponsored by

Customer Service Excellence Award - Sponsored by

Apprentice Employer of the Year - Sponsored by

Excellence in Training and & Development - Sponsored by

International Trade & Export - Sponsored by

Small Business Growth and Development Award - Sponsored by

Hospitality Innovation Award - Sponsored by

in for the Hospitality Innovation Award before the deadline on Friday, May 28.

The , in association with, will take place on Thursday, September 16 at Maher Centre. For tickets, please contact Michelle Roberts, mroberts@championsukplc.com.

Find out more information on the official website: .