We launch the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards 2013

But through his vision and leadership, R&R Ice Cream has grown to become Europe’s largest ice cream maker.

Mr Lambert OBE, executive chairman of the North Yorkshire company, picked up the individual award at last year’s Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards. He is pictured above with event host Alistair McGowan and business editor Bernard Ginns. Today, the Yorkshire Post launches this year’s awards, the most prestigious celebration of business and enterprise in God’s Own Country.

The awards are open to companies of all shapes and sizes and highlight the inspirational work and unsung heroes in Yorkshire’s business community.

Categories range from innovation and entrepreneurialism to exports and outstanding employment practices.

DLA Piper, Goldman Sachs, PwC and Yorkshire Bank are main sponsors for the awards programme, which culminates in a glittering ceremony in Leeds on October 31.

Bradford University School of Management, Drax, O2, QBE Insurance and thebigword group are associate sponsors.

To enter, go here and complete the online form.

Alternatively, you may email entries to the Editor’s secretary Jayne Lownsbrough at [email protected]