Eleven entries from Bristol media companies have been nominated for the 2009 Media Innovation Awards.

Eleven of the 46 nominated entries come from Bristol-based media companies, providing strong representation in 9 of the 16 award categories. A record 143 entries were received for the awards this year and the high level of nominations in Bristol demonstrates the wealth of media talent in the area.

Karen Stockdale of the Media Innovation Awards said, “Both the number and calibre of entries this year has been extremely high. There was a very strong response from Bristol and I am delighted that so many of the entries have been nominated in such a wide range of categories. The level of competition is increasing all the time and our panel of judges had a tough job choosing the shortlist from the huge array of exceptional entries.”

The awards recognise the innovative use of media and design in the region, and members of the cluster groups from Cornwall through to Dorset and Gloucestershire were invited to enter the 16 categories.

The Bristol nominations are:

Television: Swift Films – Race Across America

Community website: Beef – www.bristolmedia.co.uk

Multiplatform: BBC Natural History Unit – Big Cat Live & BBC Natural History Unit – World on the Move

Independent film/video: Green Lit Media Ltd – Domestic Flight

Mobile: Simon Games – Moosehunt & Mobile Pie – Shoutbox!

Screen graphics: 422Ltd – Britain From Above

Installation/Exhibition: Watershed – The Dream Director

Collaboration: Watershed – Electric December

Outstanding contribution: The Pervasive Media Studio

The awards will be presented at a ceremony held at the Ashton Gate stadium in Bristol on Thursday 12 March. Bookings are now being accepted for the gala dinner; tickets cost £40 each or you can book a table of 10 for £360. The event includes a drink on arrival, a 3 course meal, coffee and entertainment.

You can book and pay for tickets on line at www.mediainnovationawards.com or call 01752 346530 or email info@pm-p.com