GIRL power will come to the fore when a competition to find the top female enterpreneurs in North Manchester reaches its climax.

And three Bury businesswomen are among the 24 shortlisted applicants for the glittering women in business event to be staged next Friday (Feb 14) at Bolton's Reebok Stadium.

Bolton Business Ventures (BBV), the local enterprise and development agency, says there is a strong demand for the £35-a-head luncheon tickets on Valentine's Day.

The winner in each of seven categories will win £2,000 and a trophy. Runners-up will get £1,000 and a trophy. Entries were open to women who run businesses across the area covered by North Manchester Business Link, embracing Bury, Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale and Wigan.

Judges will choose the winners from 24 shortlisted entrants. Among them are the Intercare Employment Agency Ltd, based in Spring Street, Bury, which is run by Ruth Yasmeen. Also shortlisted is Ramsbottom-based boffin Lorna Roscow whose Inventors Highway shop and company is located in the town's Square Street.

Making up the trio is Gloria Marsh who operates the Soupreme Sandwich Shop in Fountain Place, Whitefield.

BBV ran the popular Bolton and Bury Business Awards for Excellence for nine years before deciding on this change of direction.