Prescot traders received a surprise accolade for their contribution to the area as the biggest ever Knowsley Business Awards took place.

The annual celebration of the borough’s individuals and organisations returned last night (22 November), with 850 guests in attendance.

Retailers and food and drink establishments from Prescot’s independent business community were unexpectedly handed the Judges Choice Award in recognition of their enthusiasm and commitment to the town, which is the subject of major investment and developments including the Shakespeare North Playhouse.

Kier – the preferred construction partner for the forthcoming venue – was the lead sponsor for the ceremony, which took place in a grand marquee within the grounds of Knowsley Safari Park.

During the event, winners and highly commended businesses were also announced across 13 categories ranging from Housing Development of the Year to the Corporate Social Responsibility Award.

Members of the Knowsley Place Board, made up of senior business figures from across the North West, judged this year’s entries which were said to be of a high calibre due to the borough’s thriving business community.

Edward Perry, chair of the Knowsley Place Board, says: “Once again I am delighted to have been part of the judging panel for these prestigious awards. I think I can speak on behalf of all my fellow place board members when I say that year on year we are overwhelmed by the standard of the entries. This year was no exception.

“The achievements and successes from Knowsley businesses and business people are quite remarkable and the collective contribution of our business community to Knowsley is fantastic. The awards are a great opportunity to celebrate all that hard work, determination and expertise and for me, and many others, the Knowsley Business Awards are a big highlight in my calendar.”

Councillor Graham Morgan, leader of Knowsley Council, adds: “Each year, the business awards provide an opportunity for the business community in Knowsley and further afield, to come together to recognise those individuals and organisations who are contributing towards the economic success of the area.

“We have some amazing success stories here in Knowsley and the event is a wonderful celebratory occasion. And with 850 guests this year, it certainly was a celebration. I would like to pass on my congratulations to all of this year’s winners and highly commended and thank everyone who took time to submit a nomination.”

A prize draw on the night raised money for the Mayor of Knowsley’s chosen charities Breast Mates Cancer Support Group and Hop Skip and Jump foundation.

 

Knowsley Business Awards 2018 full list of winners:

Small Business of the Year

Winner: Applied Nutrition Ltd

 

Developing Future Skills

Winner: Machmade Ltd

Highly Commended: Beverston Engineering Ltd

 

Medium Business of the Year

Winner: Cybertill

Highliy Commended: Blends Ltd

 

Large Business of the Year

Winner: Colloids Limited

 

Housing Development of the Year

Winner: Anwyl Homes

Highly Commended: Bellway Homes Limited

 

Excellence in Manufacturing

Winner (up to 100 employees): Blends Ltd

Winner (over 100 employees): Dairy Crest Limited

Highly Commended: Beverston Engineering Ltd

 

Corporate Social Responsibility Award

Winner: Villages Housing Trust

Highly Commended: Your Voice Your Choice

 

Micro Business of the Year

Winner: JK Brickwork NW Ltd

Highly Commended: Spectrum Drylining Ltd

 

Commercial Development of the Year

Winner: Orbit Developments

 

Contractor of the Year

Winner: Krol Corlett Construction

Highly Commended: Webber (NW) Ltd

 

Apprentice of the Year

Winner: Danielle Flynn, Jaguar Land Rover

Highly Commended: Kevin Porter, JK Brickwork NW Ltd

 

Employee of the Year

Winner: Josh Fearon, Noodles Nursery

Highly Commended: Lisa Walsh, QVC

 

Team of the Year

Highly Commended: ACC Charity Team, Associates of Cape Cod

 

Judges Choice Awards for Prescot Ambassadors:

Jessie & Co.

MATE Productions

Albion Bakehouse

The Dance Shop

The Bard

Pinion Bistro

Poppy Belle Florals

Mabel Doll

Station Coffee House

Kingsmen Street Food

Urbano Chiringuito

Rogues & Rascals

Poco Coffee

Ray’s Bakery

Natural & Gorgeous