Last year's awards were a fantastic success, not only for the County Times but also for Horsham's business community.

The glittering awards ceremony – which I was lucky enough to be invited to – really did showcase the best of Horsham business and after the golden envelopes had been opened and the awards had been dished out, I took the opportunity to speak to as many winners and nominees as I could.

These conversations sparked lots of invitations to visit local businesses and meet the teams who make them the successes that they are.

Visiting these local companies – both large and small, fledgling and long-established – not only proved exactly why they had been nominated for awards by so many of their customers but also gave me an ideal opportunity to discuss exactly what it is about the Horsham district that had enabled them to flourish.

I found out a lot about the issues that affect local business – both positively and negatively.

We're used to hearing about businesses that fail or others that are forced to close their doors – most recently, sadly, Annetts in Horsham's Carfax.

Indeed, at the request of local retailers, I held a number of meetings last year to explore the issues that affect independent and small traders in Horsham town centre.

But the Business Awards really do emphasise that Horsham is home to many thriving companies and also to a real diversity of industry.

Nominees last year were as varied as florists, restaurants and design agencies.

And so, 2008 brings with it the opportunity to nominate a local business or business person who you feel deserves to have their achievements publicly recognised.

Categories range from best customer care, best contribution to life in the district, best newcomer and even best boss!

So, I'd encourage readers to have a think, fill out a nomination form (see the link on this site) and look forward to the build-up to the 2008 West Sussex County Times Business Awards.