PROFESSIONALS working across the hospitality, tourism and retail sectors have until midnight on Thursday to enter the inaugural Southampton Star Awards.

The independent awards, launched by ROUTEpr and Events in association with GO! Southampton, the Business Improvement District (BID), Wave 105 and Radweb, will highlight the star performers of the hospitality, tourism and retail sectors.

Covering the SO postcode area, the entrants may work in tourism, retail and hospitality or be a supplier to that industry.

Once entrants have been judged, semi-finalists will be selected from each category, three of which will go on to gain Gold, Silver, or Bronze Star Award status at a celebratory semi-finalist event.

The awards will culminate with a gala dinner and ceremony this spring which will recognise those acting as champions for the tourism, retail and hospitality sector and who bring a positive economic impact to the city.

Jackie Phillipson, co-founder of ROUTEpr and Events, said: "The Southampton Star Awards deliberately feature hospitality, tourism and the retail sector, reflecting the local business mix."

"The categories have a clear focus and are open to businesses, suppliers and individuals. Judges include independent trade and business executives, entrepreneurs, innovators and business educators and media associates."

The Award categories include:

• New Business

• Large Hotel

• Boutique Hotel or Bed and Breakfast

• Dining Experience

• Shopping Experience

• The Event or Festival of the Year

• Getting About

• Rising Star

• Future Proof or Innovation

• The Mix Master

• Environment and Community

• Super Nova - The Leading Star

For more information about how to enter the awards to be involved as a sponsor contact Jackie@routepr.agency on 01202 896 698 or visit sostars.co.uk