Lottery operator Camelot has signed up as the main sponsor of this year’s Regional Press Awards, organisers announced this morning.

More than 750 entries have been received for the awards, organised by the Society of Editors in association with the Newspaper Society and HoldtheFrontPage.

The SoE has also announced that radio presenter Nick Ferrari is to host the ceremony, taking place on 11 May at London’s Park Plaza Hotel.

Its executive director Bob Satchwell said: “We are delighted and grateful for the support of Camelot and Nick Ferrari. They share our determination to recognise the talent and effort that goes into regional and local newspapers.”

Camelot, operator of the National Lottery is a long time supporter of Society of Editors conferences and the national press awards.

Ferrari, a former newspaper journalist and executive is presenter of the Breakfast show at LBC 97.3. He has presented regional awards previously and is donating his services to help ensure this year’s event can happen.

The awards are being organised on a not for profit basis, with Journalists Charity set to benefit from any surplus.

Attendance at the lunch will be at the special inclusive price of £70 plus VAT per person or £700 plus VAT per table to include refreshments at the Newspaper Society AGM, a pre lunch drinks reception and wine with lunch.

To book your place please contact Kate McMillan at the Society of Editors.