A small estate agents from Colliers Wood is in the running for a big award.

Samuel Estates has been nominated in the best small business category at the RBS South London Business Awards 2009.

It is one of three companies from Merton which have made it the finals, due to take place at an Oscar-style ceremony on May 20 at Selhurst Park, home of

target="_blank">Crystal Palace FC.

The other finalists from the borough are corporate live event company Aztec UK in the best business for sustainability category, and plastic manufacturers Plastico Ltd in the best business for international trade category.

They were among 52 companies selected from entrants of the 12 boroughs south of the Thames in the annual competition - for which this paper is the media partner and also sponsors the customer service award.

Peter Pledger, chief executive of South London Business, said: “This terrific result emphasises not only the strength of local business in south London, but also the sheer innovation, diversity and entrepreneurial spirit to be found here.”

Samuel Estates managing director Nick Samuel said: “Doing well at this particular time requires maximum commitment from every member of staff.

"These awards highlight the quality, care and effort we put into the work we do for our customers and it is a great reward for sheer hard work.”

The Windmill Way business will be joined at the finals by Plastico Ltd, a family owned Mitcham company manufacturing disposable and reusable plastic tableware.

"Aztec UK, another Mitcham business, creates sound and light shows for conferences and corporate events and has been nominated for its commitment to going green."

Simon Thackray, managing partner of Thackray Williams Solicitors LLP and judge of Best Medium Sized Business category said: "Recession there may be but all our finalists have demonstrated that by innovative thinking combined with effective management there are businesses in south London doing a lot more than simply surviving.

"Growth and increased profitability is still on the agenda for many."

• Win two free tickets (worth £97.75 each) to the RBS South London Business Awards Dinner on May 20 as special guests of South London Business – south London’s voice of business.

The competition winner will join one of South London Business’ VIP tables and enjoy a three course meal, with complimentary drinks, followed by the awards ceremony – hosted by radio DJ David Jensen – and live music from band Payback.

The competition is free to enter and all entrants have to do is email: awards@southlondonbusiness.co.uk and enter the word ‘Competition’ in the subject line. An email will be selected at random by South London Business chief executive, Peter Pledger, on Wednesday, May 13 at 12pm.

The winning company will be notified by 1pm on the same day. Companies wishing to attend the dinner can still buy tickets by contacting Kevin Miller on 020 8768 6044