Ferry service in double award win at Havant event

The night, organised by Havant MP Alan Mak, saw The Hayling Ferry company scoop the top prize.

Last year, the ferry service transported 50,000 passengers between Hayling Island and Eastney.

The firm beat hundreds of other nominations to win Small Business of the Year award.

The event, held at South Downs College, aims to recognise thriving companies from across the Havant area.

The Hayling Ferry team celebrated a double-award win, as Ferry Skipper Colin Hill took home the Greatest Contribution to the Community award.

Mr Hill was recognised for his dedication to getting the ferry to operate commercially over the last 12 months.

Colin said: ‘I am delighted to win and it was totally unexpected. Absolutely brilliant. It’s nice to be appreciated and recognised at an event like the Havant Small Business Awards.’

Jacqui Unal from 19 Fourteas Tearoom won Business Personality of the Year. She said: ‘Winning the award was completely unexpected and I’m overwhelmed.

‘It was a fabulous evening and I’m already looking forward to next year.’

The annual ceremony managed to raise more than £500 through its charity raffle for the Southern Domestic Abuse Service and Royal British Legion.

Alan Mak MP said: ‘Across all the categories we had so many brilliant nominations from local residents.

‘What’s clear from these awards is that across the Havant constituency we have so many thriving businesses,

‘As we head towards Christmas, let’s keep backing our high streets and local businesses.’