ORGANISERS for the Winchester Business Excellence Awards have announced the first companies to be shortlisted for the prestigious prizes.

They are now in the running for some of the city’s most coveted accolades which will be presented at the awards ceremony on June 5 at the Guildhall.

The University of Winchester’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award saw strong demand from business owners looking to be rewarded for their willingness to take risks and crystal-clear business plans.

Judges were also looking for evidence of a strong resilience to setbacks, clearly communication of SMART objectives, and financial literacy.

Among the applicants, four have been shortlisted for demonstrating a strong vision, identifying gaps in the market and good management and communication skills.

Those shortlisted are: online medicines company Veterinary Prescriber, Winnall-based and award-winning producer of Twisted Nose gin and vodka Winchester Distillery, relatively new business Face Matters Skincare, based near Southampton, and intellectual property licensee and product manufacturer Raw IP Ltd.

Winchester City Council’s Carbon Smart Business of the Year category also saw a large number of entries.

Judges were looking for businesses registered with the Carbon Smart Winchester certification scheme and plans for businesses to reduce carbon emissions. They were also looking for a commitment to improve environmental practices and evidence of a greener workforce.

The finalists selected are: Two Hoots Campsite, which specialise in all-year popular Glamping, Eco Car Care valeting service in Winchester, contemporary architecture firm Alexander Design, and Sustainable Acoustics Ltd.