The search is on for Britain's top, self-made businesswomen.

The Women Mean Business Awards, which are sponsored by T-Mobile, want female entrepreneurs in the district to shout about their success.

Research found more than one million women are now running their own business. The awards, in their second year, will see businesswomen scoop £40,000 in prizes.

Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, said: "In the United States, the level of women's business ownership is twice that of the UK.

"One of my aims is to match, or even exceed, what has been achieved there. To do this, we must ensure that women owned businesses, whatever their size, are valued and supported effectively."

Harris Jones, T-Mobile's chief executive for the UK, added: "All too often, the vital role independent business women play, both as wealth creators and employers, is overlooked. These unique awards help to redress that balance and remind us that Britain boasts some of the finest entrepreneuses in the world."

The closing date for entries is April 11. Entry forms are available from the Women Mean Business Awards Office, Stable Yard, 16 Balham Hill, London, SW12 9EB.