THEY'RE co-ordinators and confidantes at the nervecentre of virtually every business - but many are unsung heroes.

Personal Assistants - PAs - play a pivotal role and yet are all too often overlooked. But now that's about to change.

Smart Group Recruitment Solutions, in conjunction with 2CR FM, is sponsoring the inaugural PA of the Year Awards in association with PA magazine.

Anyone can nominate a PA for the award which includes a prize to the value of £500 in vouchers for the winner.

Nomination forms are available from any of Smart Group's four branches in Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Dorchester.

"The PA role is one that requires an extensive skills base, including people skills, organisational skills, confidentiality, adaptability and a proactive attitude - all of which are essential," said Smart Group director Helen Stacey, who will be on the judging panel.

"We are expecting a significant number of entries from across the region and anticipate quantity as well as quality applicants.

"There is no entry fee and we would encourage people to enter anyone they think worthy of recognition as the best in their field from across the region."

Entry forms are available at any of Smart Group's branches, from 2CR FM's website www.musicradio.co.uk or from PA magazine.

The deadline for entries is October 15. An awards lunch will be held on the October 22 for shortlisted entries and their nominees at the Anglo Swiss Hotel, Bournemouth.

First published: Oct 6