Judging has begun!

I might suggest a new Olympic category - awards entry reading

For the next three days I will be locked in a darkened room to plough my way through the hundreds of Channel Awards entries that we have received.

I may venture out to make the odd cup of tea or probably swig some whiskey to get me through it, but apart from that it is eyes glued to the screen from about 7.30am onwards until I get through them all.

It really is a mammoth task and one that leaves my brain a little washed out at the end - but every year I'm feeling a lot happier.

I can already say the standard of entry has increased again this year, so the judging panel really does have its work cut out to decide the winners.

I'd like to thank all my fellow judges for agreeing to spare the time to complete their own reading marathon and I'm already looking forward to judging day to see who makes the shortlist.

It is going to be a close run thing in many categories.

See you all on Thursday!

Remember, shortlists will be out around 28 August. Stay tuned to Channelweb for all the details. Best of luck to all the contenders!