STARS of the hospitality, tourism and retail worlds will be recognised at the BH Star Awards next year.

Organisers Richard Blunderfield and Jackie Phillipson hope to reward the individuals who make the BH post code area special.

The awards were launched at Banque and Bohem in Poole Hill and will feature a range of categories. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner in the spring.

Richard and Jackie said: "The Star Awards recognise new and innovative products, services and suppliers, who bring economic value to the local BH postcode area and wider region.

"We are attracting sponsors, partners and suppliers who appreciate the hard work and dedication which create our award-winning destination. Many names are well-known in the local community, people with great connections who genuinely interact with other like-minded businesses."

Businesses already associated and supporting the awards include the Daily Echo, Country Fare, County Foods, Eskimo EPOS, Meridian Lifts, Meridian Air Conditioning, M-PLOY, Oceana Hotel Group, RT Promotions, and Templar Wines.

For more details go to bhstars.co.uk