THE finalists in the Bridgwater Mercury-backed Somerset Business Awards have been announced.

After a record number of entries, judges have visited companies of all sizes from a range of sectors before selecting the finalists in each category.

Companies will find out who wins the awards on Friday, October 17, at the black-tie celebratory dinner at Westland Leisure Complex, in Yeovil.

Shortlisted for three awards, Rich Clothier, managing director and third generation family member at Wyke Farms, said: “We’re utterly delighted.

“It’s fantastic recognition for the team here at Wyke Farms.

“To be among some of the best in our region is a huge accolade for the business.

“It’s an honour for our team and the many businesses that we work with across the region – without their hard work, we would not be able to achieve the great things that we have.”

Bethan Baigent, from Glyder, who was on the judging panel for the New Business of the Year Award, added: “It is incredibly exciting exploring the award entries, and really shows the passion new businesses have in Somerset.

"The judging process was difficult, but I’m confident we have some strong finalists and we wish them all the best of luck for the awards evening.”

David Griffin, managing partner of main sponsors Albert Goodman, said: “The standard of entries has been absolutely incredible this year and we are honoured to judge so many fantastic businesses.”

Working together with Bridgwater College, the finalists will now be filmed by the media students to create a short film about the business and what winning means to them.

The film will be shown at the awards night and will form part of the students’ final course results. The awards are run by Somerset Chamber of Commerce.

For more details, click on www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk