The MP for Chirk and the Ceiriog Valley has given his backing to an awards scheme which recognises small, community-based businesses in his constituency of Clwyd South.

Simon Baynes MP showed his support for businesses in the region, as well as the Wrexham and Denbighshire Business Champion Awards.

The Business Champion Awards were launched to highlight the achievements of the UK’s very best small businesses who have shown great community spirit in their local area.

It focuses on businesses with up to 50 employees, including hairdressers, cafes, accountants, solicitors and graphic designers.

Mr Baynes is now urging Clwyd South businesses to apply for the awards.

“In Clwyd South we have so many excellent small businesses who are worthy of the Business Champions Award,” he said.

“So it’s wonderful to see that these businesses have an opportunity to be recognised for their efforts, particularly during these challenging times.

“I would strongly encourage small businesses in Wrexham and Denbighshire to apply for this award and I want to wish them the very best of luck in this competition.”

Small businesses in both Wrexham and Denbighshire have the chance to be in the regional finals, competing at town and country levels.

The awards will culminate with five regional finals in Wales, Scotland Northern Ireland, Northern England and Southern England.

Awards director, Damian Cummins, added: “This year, more than ever, we have learned to appreciate our local independent businesses. From the local corner shop to barbers, pubs and cafes.

“Lots of these small businesses are put off by business awards as they feel they are too small to compete.

“We wanted to create an awards ceremony that recognised and celebrated the very best of local businesses, from the High Streets to those hidden away in the nooks and crannies of towns and villages.”

For more information, or to enter the awards, you can visit www.townandcountybusinesschampions.co.uk or www.tcbchamps.co.uk