HAMPSHIRE'S top inventors are being invited to pit their wits against the best in the south in the competition Innovention 2006.

As well as fighting for a share of the £20,000 prize pool, they could also attract attention from businesses, manufacturers and investors.

Now in its 15th year, Innovention is open to businesses and lone inventors from Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.

This year the exhibition will be held on Friday, June 23, at the Intech Centre in Winchester.

The deadline for entry to the competition is May 12.

John Stainer, of competition organisers the Wessex Innovation Service, said: "This is not just about the prize money - it's a unique opportunity for inventors to show off their ideas to experts who could help them in their quest to become the next James Dyson."

For more information visit www.shealtd.co.uk or contact 023 9244 9449 or sehea@sehea.co.uk.