Property solutions provider Rok has announced that it is to sponsor the prestigious Town & Country Design Awards scheme run by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in Wessex and the south-west regions.

Since the scheme was launched by RIBA in 1996, with the aim of rewarding talented architects, it has gained considerable momentum and now includes categories for new homes, new or renovated workplaces, alterations, buildings in country towns and urban regeneration projects.

Last year saw a record number of entries with a shortlist featuring buildings as diverse as a hospital outpatients' department, a new library and a private home in the Channel Islands.

Chief executive of Rok Garvis Snook explained why his company was keen to support the awards: "As a company always looking for the best solution for people's property aspirations, we naturally have an eye for quality and appropriate design.

"We are the first to recognise good design and the impact it can have on all our lives and so we are happy to applaud the finest examples.

"We are looking forward to seeing the entries in this year's competition and if previous years are anything to go by we know we are in for a treat."

Jane Pinnock, director of RIBA Wessex, said the scheme's organisers were extremely grateful to Rok for its support of the awards which she knew were highly prized by the professionals who received them as well as the owners of the properties and the communities around them.

The closing date for the awards is April 28 2003 and anyone wanting an entry form should contact RIBA Wessex on 01225 874700.