Businesses and community heroes from across the Lichfield District were honoured at the inaugural Beacon Awards.
The awards scheme held by Lichfield District Council attracted 175 nominations with the winners across 13 categories announced during a black-tie dinner at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Alrewas, on Thursday.
Lichfield Garrick Theatre enjoyed great success on the night, picking up two of the business of the year awards.
Meanwhile, family firm Jukes Funeral Services and not-for-profit pre-loved care equipment supplier Grace Cares were also both recognised in two categories.
The winners were:
- Start Up Business of the Year - Lichfield PAT Testing
- Independent Business of the Year - JCFX Media
- Customer Service Award – Friary Shoes
- Tourism and Hospitality Business of the Year – Lichfield Garrick Theatre
- Apprentice/Young Businessperson of the Year - Sydney Tearle, Jukes Funeral Services
- Employer of the Year - Zest Education
- Small Business of the Year - The George Hotel
- Best Sustainable Business – Grace Cares
- Entrepreneur of the Year - Jukes Funeral Services
- Lichfield Shining Light - Chase Terrace Academy
- Community Hero - Grace Cares
- Charity or Social Enterprise of the Year - Liberty Jamboree
- Large Business of the Year - Lichfield Garrick Theatre
Scott Barker, Managing Director of Zest Education, which won Employer of the Year, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been recognised for our hard work at the inaugural Beacon Awards.
“It was a fantastic night celebrating local achievements and we can’t wait to attend the next one.
“Well done to all the winners and a big thank you to Lichfield District Council for putting on such a brilliant night.”
A spokesperson for Lichfield District Council said: “The first Beacon Awards evening was a great success. It was an important opportunity for the district’s businesses and community heroes to be recognised for all their hard work.”
