Business Awards 2018: All dressed up for a night to remember

The News Business Excellence Awards 2018

Sweet Dreamers, winners of the Overall Business of the Year.

Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233121006 — The News Business Excellence Awards 2018 Sweet Dreamers, winners of the Overall Business of the Year. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233121006

Guests at the prestigious black tie awards filled the venue to find out who would win coveted accolades at the 17th annual ceremony.

A panel of expert judges had spent hours deliberating over hundreds of entries before the night, which was hosted by Sky presenter and businesswoman Nicki Shields.

One team in particular were celebrating after scooping two accolades at the glitzy bash.

The News Business Excellence Awards 2018.

Retailer of the Year Award, Debbie Watts, Owner of Solent Mobility with host TV presenter Nicki Shields

Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233045006 — The News Business Excellence Awards 2018. Retailer of the Year Award, Debbie Watts, Owner of Solent Mobility with host TV presenter Nicki Shields Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233045006

Sweet Dreamers, based in Waterlooville, took home one of the biggest awards, Overall Business of the Year, and Small Business of the Year.

Founder Lynda Harding has seen enormous success with her products which have been endorsed by Amanda Holden, Konnie Huq and Lily Allen.

Lynda said: ‘I simply cannot believe that we have taken not one but two awards tonight.

‘I am so taken aback that we’ve been awarded an accolade that is recognised across the south of England.’

Team of the Year, Craig Manuel, Managing Director of Gemma Lighting with Mike Gaston, Principle and Chief Executive at South Downs College.(right)

Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233021006 — Team of the Year, Craig Manuel, Managing Director of Gemma Lighting with Mike Gaston, Principle and Chief Executive at South Downs College.(right) Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233021006

Lynda’s son Harry said: ‘It’s a family company. My mum really plays it down but we’re all so proud of her and what she has achieved.’

Dan Winiarczuk and Chloe Hutchins were winner and highly commended respectively in Apprentice of the Year.

Chloe, 17 said: ‘I was shocked to be offered a job with Havant & South Downs College before my apprenticeship ended, but I didn’t think I would win an award for it!’

Dan, 22 said: ‘I’m gobsmacked. I don’t know what to say but thank you so much.’

Business Personality/Acheivement Award winner Matt Fox, Dynamite Recruitment with Simon Rhodes, Senior Partner at Trethowans.

Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233009006 — Business Personality/Acheivement Award winner Matt Fox, Dynamite Recruitment with Simon Rhodes, Senior Partner at Trethowans. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland PPP-180223-233009006

A brand new award was presented at the ceremony, the Green Business of the Year prize. which went to vegan supermarket Wild Thyme Wholefoods.

Stuart Mills, who works at the Southsea shop, said: ‘We wanted to bring something different to the area. It’s wonderful to be recognised, especially as a relatively new enterprise.’

Editor of The News Mark Waldron said: ‘It’s been a brilliant evening for businesses to enjoy their success in style. These are the companies that make Portsmouth and we couldn’t be prouder of the exceptional standard in our region.’

Host for the evening Nicki said: ‘What a night! When you’re constantly moving, it’s important to stop, take a breath and recognise how far you’ve come.

‘The News has provided an outstanding platform for that.’