THE search is on for the coveted Veuve Clicquot Business Woman of the Year for 1998 - nominations must be received by January 31.

Bolton-based Vernacare group's former chairman, Jean Wilson, was shortlisted in 1993 but the town has yet to produce a winner to join the likes of Anita Roddick of the Bodyshop and Debbie Moore of Pine- apple.

Veuve Clicquot's founder Nicole Clicquot was the inspiration behind the award, now in its 26th year, and judges are looking for women with similar qualities including power, charisma, dynamism, innovation and tenacity.

The winner will be presented with a trophy by Crown Jeweller's Asprey and Garrard at Claridge's in London and will later travel to Veuve Cicquot's famous vineyards and cellars at Reims, where a vine will be dedicated to her.

She will also be made a "Friend of the Dame", receiving a gift of La Grande Dame Champagne for every birthday thereafter.

And the winning nominator will receive 12 magnums of Veuve Clicquot vintage champagne.

Nominations should be supported by as much information as possible including company reports, accounts, curriculum vitae, press releases and press cuttings - all of which will be kept in complete confidence.

If you know someone who fits the bill send your nominations to the Veuve Clicquot Award, Freepost, London SW1X 7YS.

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