BUSINESSES have less than a week left to enter The Press Business Awards 2013.

Monday is the deadline to enter the competition, which celebrates the achievements of the best businesses in York, North and East Yorkshire.

Contenders can enter for free to have their successes recognised at a ceremony at York Racecourse on November 21.

Chartered accountants and tax advisers CCF Accountancy, of South Park Road, Harrogate, is in the running for the Small Business category.

It has entered after a significant year for CCF Accountancy, in which it took over the business of another accountancy firm and increased its team of staff from one to five.

Teresa Bowe, owner, has based the company on its customers’ needs, she said. CCF stands for Clients Come First, and Teresa insists that all new clients agree to quarterly meetings to measure performance against the forecast and take any necessary steps to keep things on track.

The company also invests in its talent, developing two trainees and currently employing an apprentice, who spends a day each week at college.

Teresa said: “Helping staff to achieve their qualifications not only benefits them as individuals, but is good for the whole firm. It expands the pool of skills on which they can draw, meaning clients get the best possible advice and guidance from their accountants. It also helps to develop a strong, loyal team which will offer long-term stability to CCF and help to maintain clients’ confidence.”

Businesses and individuals, including students, can enter up to two categories, ranging from the size and type of business to how they’re demonstrating best practice in areas such as export, community work and sustainable travel.

Enter now at thepressbusinessawards.co.uk