Know a barista whose banter brightens your day? What about a newly opened florist who goes the extra mile to improve the local environment?

Now its fifth year the Epsom and Ewell Business Excellence Awards are open for nominations to find the best traders and service providers in the borough.

Proudly supported by this newspaper, the awards recognise outstanding achievement in a total of nine categories located anywhere in the constituency; including Ashtead and Nork.

The top prize up-for-grabs is the best overall winner and last year this went to Spring Electrical in Kingston Road, Epsom, who went home not only with a handsome trophy, but a clutch of additional publicity and support.

Denise Hilier, from the company said: "We were extremely happy to be voted the best business in Ewell and Stoneleigh, but to subsequently win the best business award has made us immensely proud.

"Many of our regular customers have called in to congratulate us and to tell us how deserved it is.

"But it has also become apparent that new customers have gained a sense of trust in our company and others have been made aware of the services we offer."

The categories are;

- Best overall local business

- Best business for commitment to the community

- Best business for customer services

- Best business personality

- Best new business

- Best business in Epsom and Epsom Downs

- Best business in Ewell and Stoneleigh

- Best business in Ashtead

- Best website or use of social media

- Best young entrepreneur.

The main prize winner this year will receive £1,000 worth of radio advertising courtesy of co-sponsor Radio Jackie and one year’s complimentary membership to the Federation of Small Businesses.

All entries must be received by September 30 and the awards will be presented by Epsom and Ewell MP Chris Grayling who is leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council, at a drinks reception on Thursday, November 26.

He said: "Epsom and Ewell has always had a dynamic business community, and our businesses continue to provide an excellent service to their customers even in difficult times economically.

"These awards are a celebration of local business excellence, to give both companies and individuals the chance to nominate organisations that do a particularly good job for them.

"I hope the awards will become a regular event locally and something that local businesses compete to be successful in."

For more information on the categories, the judges and sponsors and how to nominate visit www.epsombusinessawards.co.uk