Bermuda's first ever web awards were announced by organisers Evoke International Limited yesterday.

With the support of the Department of Telecommunications and E-Commerce, the 'WebSAwards' are intended to promote use of the internet and e-commerce in all aspects of daily life as well as recognising excellence on the web.

E-Commerce Minister Renne Webb said: "I am pleased to be able to support this exciting initiative as I believe it will encourage further progress in the development of e-business in Bermuda.

"We already have a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure which provides an excellent platform for the development of internet-related activities.

"Through this awards competition we can additionally recognise the creativity and innovation of many of our best businesses as well as students and Bermudian citizens."

Evoke International president, Walton Brown Jr. acknowledged the support for the competition provided by the Ministry and the corporate sector and said: "We are encouraged by the level of resources committed to this initiative by both the ministry and companies on the Island. The sponsors are keen to lend their names to this important event and promote the competition objectives."

The objectives of the competition are to recognise excellence in web design, to recognise excellence in e-commerce solutions, to recognise excellence in the use of relevant technology, to promote utilisation of the internet for business and personal use, and to enhance Bermuda's image and to promote awareness of the Island as an innovative and leading force foe e-commerce and internet capability.

Any company, organisation or individual based in Bermuda that has a web site functioning for the duration of the competition period is eligible to submit their web site for consideration.

The deadline for receipt of submissions is October 19 and winners will be announced at the awards ceremony set for 25 January.

Evoke International is a Bermudian owned strategic, marketing, advertising and design company.

On the Web: www.web-s-awards.com