Celebrating business in a year like no other

THE winners of the 2021 GloucestershireLive Business Awards have been announced at a special event at the Centaur at Cheltenham Racecourse.

The black-tie ceremony, which recognised the outstanding achievements of the county’s business community, was hosted by magician and television presenter Ben Hanlin, who dazzled guests with his mindboggling tricks.

The winners included individuals and companies from across a wide range of sectors – from technology to engineering to retail to the public sector – who have managed to succeed despite a year like no other.

The headline sponsors, chartered accountancy firm Randall & Payne, also returned to support the event – now in its 23rd year – for the tenth time.

Tim Watkins, managing partner of Randall & Payne, said: “A win this year feels even more momentous after last year’s awards had to be cancelled due to such difficult circumstances.

“It’s been such a special evening celebrating the success and resilience of our business community. Congratulations to all the winners – and the finalists should also feel extremely proud of their achievement.”

A special recognition award for the great work of the NHS in Gloucestershire during the pandemic was presented to Peter Lachecki, chair of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, on behalf of all the 9,000 NHS workers in the county.

A lifetime achievement award, sponsored by British Bespoke Auctions, was also presented on the night to Dr Diane Savory, OBE DL, chair at Gloucestershire local enterprise partnership GFirst LEP.

Reach Plc regional editor, Emma Slee, said: “Congratulations to all the winners. Last night we celebrated the achievements of businesses in the most challenging of circumstances.

“Our businesses may look quite different to two years ago – and they may operate differently – but innovation and evolution are shining brightly and demonstrating that we will not be beaten. I was proud to be in the room with so many innovators, so many determined and persistent pioneers, so many people who have rolled with the punches and refused to admit defeat.”

A win this year feels even more momentous after last year’s awards had to be cancelled TIM WATKINS, RANDALL & PAYNE MANAGING PARTNER

Anna Lythgoe Start-up Business of the Year – sponsored by Visit Gloucestershire – winners Prosperity Care and Wellbeing Ltd