Time is nearly up for nomination for this year's Dartford and Gravesham Business Awards.

The deadline is Friday March 25, so you'd better hurry if you think your business has what it takes to be a winner.

The awards are open to any business with a turnover of no more than £5.6 million whose main base is in Dartford or Gravesham.

The Messengers and Messenger Extra support the Dartford and Gravesham Business Awards, which is in its seventh year.

Despite the tough economic climate we want these to be the best yet. The awards offer the winners prestige and recognition not only in the business community but also among the readers of the Gravesend and Dartford Messengers.

Over the past six years, we have uncovered local gems and unsung business heroes.

Last June, Keith and Anne Wisdom of Whitecode Design Associates, Dartford, went to the award ceremony in the Woodville Halls, Gravesend, just to support the occasion - but came away with the top prize.

No one was more surprised than the Wisdoms when Whitecode was unveiled as the winner.

It was the second triumph in five years for the Dartford building services firm that helps young people on to the career ladder. The 17-year old company won a similar award in 2005.

Sylvia Meade, chairman of the awards, said: "Dartford and Gravesham have some exciting and innovative companies built on hard work and good staff and customer relations. These awards give entrants a lot of good publicity and the chance of becoming a winner no matter what company size."