THE new award launched by the Test Valley Business Awards last week has been given further backing by the sponsors.

The group are keen to celebrate the great efforts made by local businesspeople despite the challenges of recent months.

The ‘Going the Extra Mile’ monthly award can be applied for immediately. It recognises local firms that have excelled during the Covid19 crisis, whether it is by growing through innovation, support for the community or the assistance they have given their own staff.

Every month, through to the re-launch of the main awards Test Valley Business Awards is calling for applications from businesses that are “Going The Extra Mile”. Each month the winner will receive champagne and the award, recognising their achievement.

Plus, the winner of winners will receive a £2.5k prize in marketing with LOCALiQ, the media group giving its backing to the initiative.

Councillor David Drew, on behalf of the borough council (sponsors of the New Business of the Year Award) said:

“It’s such a great idea to introduce the ‘Extra Mile’ awards in recognition of the hard work being done by businesses across Test Valley. While it hasn’t been possible to get out and meet new local businesses, we have all felt the impact of their commitment, determination and dedication on both our communities and the national effort in order to overcome this horrible virus.”

Alice Brown, on behalf of fellow sponsors Simplyhealth, said: “Since COVID-19 placed restrictions on all our lives we know that many businesses in the Test Valley have had to adapt and change in ways that no one could ever have predicted.”

To nominate, email newsdesk@basingstokegazette.co.uk.