On Friday 16th November the winners of the 11th Adur & Worthing Business Awards were announced at The Pavilion Theatre, Worthing.

The sell-out event was attended by over 385 guests all representing local businesses and included the town’s Mayor, Paul Baker and Mayoress, Vice Chairman of Adur District Council – Councillor Joss Loader, Tim Loughton MP as well as other distinguished guests and Council delegates.

The Adur & Worthing Business Awards is one of the most prestigious events in the local business calendar and over 700 entries and nominations were received this year.  Attendees from the business world were entertained during the ceremony, as writer and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe OBE took the reins to host the event.  During the evening guests were also treated to a surprise performance from Encore and close up table magic provided by Tony Charles – It’s Magic Time!

Run as a not-for-profit organisation, the Adur & Worthing Business Awards are organised by a committee of successful local business people from organisations including Electronic Temperature Instruments Ltd, JSPC Computer Services, Seagull Travel, Worthing & Adur Chamber of Commerce and Adur & Worthing Council.

James Stoner, Managing Director of JSPC, commented “Adur & Worthing has a great deal to boast about when it comes to business. From incredible start-up companies to large manufacturers, exciting independents and professional services – there isn’t a great deal you can’t find! I never cease to be surprised by the innovation and ambition of these local businesses and our awards are the perfect opportunity to celebrate the very best of these organisations and individuals.

The winner of the coveted Overall Business of the Year award went to A & F Pilbeam Construction Ltd.  An innovative construction company the Judges were impressed by the enterprise, passion and drive, shown by Team Pilbeam in taking their business forward. Continuing to win significant contracts across the area and beyond, they lead the way in promoting and representing their sector to an exceptional standard.

This year Geoff Raynsford (5 Rings Group) was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.  Geoff is a widely respected, and liked member of the local business community and has dedicated his life to the Worthing area in which he lives and works. He has built several successful businesses that continue to bring employment and wealth to the area

In addition to recognising some of the top business talent in our area, this year’s awards also supported Kamelia Kids Nursery, a dedicated local charity that supports families and young children with high care needs.   A fundraising raffle courtesy of Darren Crabb was held during the awards ceremony resulting in £2500 being raised for this fantastic cause.

Peter Webb MBE, Managing Director of Electronic Temperature Instruments Ltd commented; “I would like to personally congratulate all of the nominees, runners up and award winners, for their exceptional achievements over the past year. This year saw a record number of entries, once again making it a huge task to choose our finalists.  The Adur & Worthing Business Awards & Gala dinner is an unmissable event for local businesses and I’m thrilled the evening was again, such a huge success”

A full list of winners and highly commended businesses/individuals can be found here