Celebration of the best in business in Wellingborough

Accolades were handed out to the top firms at Wellingborough Chamber of Commerce’s third annual business awards, which was held at Wellingborough Golf Club, in Great Harrowden.

The winner of the Services Business of the Year was presented to White Mills Marina, in Earls Barton.

Owner Debbie Skinner said: “We’re really, really pleased. There has been a lot of blood, sweat and tears – especially tears – along the way.  It’s all been worth it, though.”

Le Spice Merchant, in Farm Road, won the Retail Business of the Year award.

Its owner, Imran Chowdhury, said: “I’m delighted. The value of this award is that it helps show people we are more than just a business.

“We do lots of charitable activities because we strongly believe in giving back to our customers and the community.”  

The Cooked Meat Company, of Finedon Road Industrial Estate, took the Manufacturing Business of the Year title while the Chamber Community Award was won by the Teamwork Trust, in Oxford Street.

Its strategic director, John Bruce, said: “To see the team’s hard work come to fruition is just excellent. This award helps us look at external funding and is certainly instrumental in having a very successful lottery bid.” 

Special mentions went to SK Energy (Services award) and The Pixie Gallery (Retail award) who were both highly commended. 

Guest speaker Duncan Farrington, founder of Farrington’s cold pressed rape-seed oil, producer of Mellow Yellow and a growing number of complimentary condiments, told the audience: “Believe in what you’re going to do, talk to people and remember to enjoy it. Don’t just do it for the money.” 

Simon Toseland, the chamber president, said: “All finalists should be immensely proud of themselves.

“They display all the best qualities associated with business in Wellingborough.

“They are vibrant, innovative and above all, truly value their customers.”