A competition has been launched in Orpington to find the best of the town’s businesses.

The Orpington’s Finest Competition runs throughout October and is put on to search for market leaders in hospitality, retail, and community spirit.

It is organised by Orpington Business Forum (OBF) and Orpington 1ST Business Improvement District (BID), and judged by an independent panel and customers. 

A mystery shopper will also be involved, as the search for Orpington’s best for retail categories, catering, service, and the environment gets underway. 

Those who shop the high street will also vote for their favourite business overall and one most deserving of a community award. 

OBF chair and former local business managing director Frank Levett explained the aim of the scheme is to encourage business to "up their game" and improve residents’ experiences while out and about.

He added: "It also helps promote competition and was a way of getting retailers to engage more with the public.

"We want to encourage people to enter. The benefits of winning include recognition from your peers and recognition from the public that you are the best business in town."

"You have got to be in it to win it."

A Christmas contest to the find the best festive window display will also run alongside the main competition.

It will begin when Orpington’s seasonal lights are switched on, on Thursday November 20. 

Orpington’s Finest is now in its seventh year and the winners will be unveiled in February 2015. 

More here orpingtonbusinessforum.co.uk