Naturalist and TV personality Chris Packham will help celebrate Islington's most environmentally-friendly firms at this year's Giant Green Business Awards.
Mr Packham, who presents BBC2's Springwatch and Autumnwatch and formerly presented The Really Wild Show, has agreed to host the second annual Islington Council-run awards for local businesses, charities and schools that excel at "going green".
The news comes as the deadline for entering the awards is extended by a week to September 6, to give more firms a chance to enter.
The awards recognise the huge role local businesses play in helping Islington become one of the most environmentally-friendly boroughs in the country.
Cllr Terry Stacy, Leader of Islington Council, said: "We're determined to do all we can to tackle climate change, and are very proud of the role local businesses play.
"The awards are our way of saying thanks to them for all their efforts, and Chris Packham will help make it an extra special occasion.
Businesses can enter six categories - Sustainable Transport, Waste Minimisation, CO2 Reduction, Green Champion, Innovation and Natural Islington.
An overall Giant Green Small Business winner and Giant Green Medium/
Large Business winner will also be announced.
Sponsored by Enterprise and supported by Business Link, the awards are open to businesses, charities, community groups, social enterprises and schools.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an awards ceremony in October.
For more information or an application form, visit www.islington.gov.uk/giantgreen or call Joanne Kelly on 020 7527 4170 or Zoe Hatherly on 020 7527 8031.
Page Last Updated: 24 August 2009