Suffolk MP Patrick Spencer has launched a new award in his constituency to recognise small companies in the run-up to Small Business Saturday on December 7. 

The Central Suffolk and North Ipswich MP is looking for nominations from across the area - from Framlingham and Needham Market to Kesgrave and the Whitton/Whitehouse area of Ipswich.

Any type of business can be nominated as part of the awards and residents can submit the name of their favourite local business by visiting Mr Spencer's website and filling in a short form.

He said: “I am delighted to launch these inaugural 2024 Business Awards and to celebrate and share the favourite businesses of residents here in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich.

"We are incredibly lucky to have so many amazing small businesses across such a wide range of sectors.

"These businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, providing jobs for local people and offering a wide range of products, services and expertise. 

“I hope these Awards will quite rightly shine a spotlight on the hard work and dedication of the entrepreneurs and business owners who contribute so much to our local economy and also do so much for our local communities.

"I look forward to celebrating the wide range of entries and to crowning our worthy winners ahead of Small Business Saturday.”

The deadline for nominations is November 15 and winners will be announced shortly after the nomination period has closed.