Business awards get off to a flying start

The event was held yesterday at Tiger Tiger in Gunwharf Quays to kickstart this year’s awards.

Previous winners, category sponsors and potential entrants learned more about the scheme, which will see winners revealed at a black-tie gala dinner on February 10 at Portsmouth Guildhall.

This year the awards, which are held to honour best practice in business, are being sponsored by Trethowans.

Trethowans is a leading law firm in the south of England providing a comprehensive range of services for business and individuals.

Lucy Grey, senior associate at Trethowans, said: ‘We’re excited and privileged to sponsor the awards this year – not only as a general sponsor but as the leading sponsor.

‘We are excited to do that as we know that many businesses are not very good at putting themselves forward off their own back when they have good stories to tell.

‘So these awards are a good way of reaching out and encouraging enterprise.’

Editor of The News Mark Waldron spoke at the event.

He said: ‘It’s an exciting time for us. It is one of the highlights of our year.

‘For us, our ambition is fairly simple – as a local newspaper we are very proud to be part of this city and the surrounding areas, and to champion businesses within it.

‘We’re excited for the future and try as much as we can to not just report on the local community, but to become part of it.’

Jane Wilson, corporate sales manager, from Tiger Tiger, said: ‘We are really proud to be sponsoring these awards – and this business breakfast. And we are looking forward to hosting the after-party in February.’

The awards are now in their 16th year, and they are open for entries in 15 categories.

Judging will be done by a panel representing the business community and the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce.

The winners will be announced at the ceremony. Closing date for all entries is Friday, November 18.

For more details email [email protected].