A county-wide awards campaign has announced new categories for this year's event.

Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the organiser of the 2018 Dorset Business Awards, has announced a series of new sponsors as a result of new categories.

Two of the four new award categories introduced are the Dorset Environmental Award, sponsored by the Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) and Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), and the Employee Health and Wellbeing Award, sponsored by BWT Physio and Ouch Training Team.

Dorset's eco-friendly businesses are being invited to put their applications forward for the Dorset Environmental Award, which aims to recognise a business with outstanding commitment to managing their environmental impact and Dorset's natural capital.

This includes carrying out actions to benefit wildlife and their habitats, reduce emissions, waste, or noise, and improve raw material use or transport efficiency.

Simon Cripps, chief executive from DWT, said: "Environment is an important element of all businesses these days. "DWT and PHC have sponsored this award to recognise and reward Dorset businesses that are making great strides to look after our county's fabulous natural assets."

BWT Physio and Ouch Training Team have joined forces to honour an employer leading the way in their commitment to the health and wellbeing of their workforce.

The Employee Health and Wellbeing Award will recognise a business that empowers and supports its people to succeed by going above and beyond the legal requirements to meet the health and wellbeing needs of its employees.

Simon Cassin, director at Ouch Training Team, said: "Ouch Training Team is extremely proud to be sponsoring an award which recognises the importance of employee health and wellbeing.

"This award aligns with our organisation's values and aspirations.

"We are sure that the high profile of the Dorset Business Awards will inspire the businesses of the county to actively embrace the health and wellbeing of their employees, resulting in a better quality of life for them, their families and friends."

Entrants can submit an entry for the awards via dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk

The closing date for entry is Friday, August 3, and is open to companies based in Dorset with a BH or DT postcode, and entrants do not need to be a member of the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The awards will take place at the Bournemouth International Centre on November,1.

For further information, contact the Dorset Business Awards team on 01202 714800.