GRAB your pens and make your votes count - the Malton and Norton town centre awards have returned.

For the second year running, businesses in the twin towns are competing to be recognised for excellent standards and notable service.

The awards have been divided into four categories, each with a prize of £250. The categories are: retail, services, food and drink and associated business.

The winners of the four sections, who will then be encouraged to enter the 2003 Evening Press business awards, will be announced in mid-April at an evening reception.

Malton and Norton town centre marketing manager Pete Mudge said customers could reward their favourite businesses through the public vote.

He said: "We want this competition to foster a sense of camaraderie and closer links between businesses and customers." Keith Herdman, of HSBC, which has contributed £1,500 to the awards, said the competition should fuel the area's burgeoning business community.

Donna Lee, of Yorkshire Forward, said the scheme was the latest in a dozen projects for Malton and Norton which have been championed by the regional agency. Norton town councillor Di Keal said the awards were an "excellent idea" and should encourage customers to take pride in local services. Voters stand to benefit too, with a £25 shopping voucher for the best submission and Ryedale Palace cinema tickets for 25 participants chosen at random. Voting forms, which must be submitted by March 14, are available at the town centre management office in Castlegate, HSBC in Market Place and stores across Malton and Norton.

Updated: 10:01 Tuesday, March 04, 2003