Small businesses from across the country were crowned the UK’s best in class last night at the Small Awards – an awards evening run by peak b and supported by Seven Hills that celebrates small businesses for their growth, creativity and commitment to their local communities.
In a spectacular ceremony at Marylebone’s historic St Mary’s church, Small Awards founder Michelle Ovens MBE opened proceedings saying: “Tonight is not just about one small business, but the huge contribution that all of the UK’s 5.6 million small businesses make to the economy and broader society.
“There are huge numbers of small businesses doing great things, making great products and excelling in customer service, and they all deserve recognition. I am proud that there is now a spotlight on vibrant, dynamic and exciting UK businesses such as these.”
Of the award winners, Grimsby-based Fortis Therapy and Training took home two prizes, including the coveted Small Business of the Year award, following an earlier win in the At Your Service category for best small service business.
Seven Hills co-founder Nick Giles – a judge of the awards – presented the Legacy award to Edge Transport, a third-generation family business delivering high quality distribution services across the North West.
A further highlight of the event was a powerful keynote speech from ‘Blind Dad’ Dr Amit Patel, who recounted the painful story of losing his eyesight overnight seven years ago.
Speaking to a packed room of 200 nominees and guests, Dr Amit – with his guide dog and Twitter sensation Kika by his side – explained how he overcame this adversity thanks to support around him: “Disability is not the end of your life. You don’t have to stop being who you are.”
To find out more about The Small Awards click here.