The Federation of Master Builders has teamed up with timber merchant Jewson to find the Master Builder of the Year 2000, a competition with prizes which include four Renault vans and holidays worth £1,500.

Quality of workmanship, working to schedule, meeting the budget, and a good attitude to customers will be areas examined by judges. Entry forms are available at branches of Jewson or on the freephone number 0800 9178553. The closing date is June 30.

BRIGHT PROSPECTS: Confidence in the future prospects of businesses in the area look bright according to the Consumers' Association.

More than 1600 people in business were interviewed for the latest survey carried out by the association, which found that the south east region had the greatest expectations of all areas in Britain.

People in the area expected property prices and real income to continue rising, and to increase their savings.

CLUB SUCCESS: Menswear specialist The Officers Club claims it has made a lightning start to sales in Sutton since it moved into St Nicholas Shopping Centre, St Nicholas Way. The firm has just acquired 60 Hammells stores in the UK, including the former Sutton shop, which it refitted in less than two days to begin trading.

Managing director Dave Charlton said: "We are absolutely delighted with the response of the customers in Sutton who have adopted the Officers Club concept straight away. We have had a very successful start to trading and anticipate that this will continue."