Sheffield took another step forward in becoming a global city of the future when it signed an international pledge to support young people to learn languages with the support of local business.

From the end of December this year, it should become easier for service providers based in Yorkshire & the Humber to do business elsewhere in Europe, thanks to a European Directive adopted in 2006.

Sponsored by DLA PIPER UK LLP and in association with the 48 Group.

The Yorkshire & Humber China Business Awards are the most prestigious international business awards in the region. All businesses with China links are encouraged to apply.

The judges will choose one winner in each of the following categories: Best China Business, Best China Newcomer and Best China Education Links.

The three finalists in each category will have a short film made about their business and achievements in China. The films will be shown at the China Business Awards ceremony, which will be held during the Yorkshire and Humber Chinese New Year Dinner at Sheffield United Football Club, Sheffield on Thursday, 11 February 2010.

Final applications to teach the Diploma in Languages and International Communication are due by 25 November 2009 (initial management information must be supplied by 26 October 2009).

On Monday 30th November, a fantastic celebration was held at the Imagination Gallery, London for the BLC awards evening. We are delighted to announce the 2009 winners.

Find out which local business has proved to be worthy as a Business Language Champion and how their efforts have been rewarded.