Test Valley Business Awards 2016
On Thursday 22nd September the six winning businesses in the Test Valley Business Awards 2016 were revealed. Celebrations took place at a very lively and elaborate Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony at The Lights, Andover.
Enjoying welcome drinks, courtesy of local businesses, and a luxurious three course meal prepared by Michelin award-winning Stockbridge chefs McCrimmon & Reid; guests took the opportunity to network and reinforce existing business relationships.
The evening was led by Master of Ceremonies Steve Randall with TV presenter and naturalist Chris Packham delivering an after dinner speech on all things local including local wildlife and, of course, local business!
The Doing Business Locally Award went to Hampshire Fare member The Weyhill Farm Shop with The George and Dragon receiving Highly Commended.
Food and Drink Producer of the Year went to Betteridge's Brewery with Enjoy! Raw Chocolate receiving Highly Commended.
Rolande, joint owner of Weyhill Farm Shop commented on the achievement: "We are delighted to have won this award. We are passionate about bringing top quality local food to Andover. Thank you to our loyal customers for their ongoing support. If you've not been to our farm shop before we urge you to pop in and browse what we have on offer."
Chris Packham commented after the event: “I’d like to extend my heart-felt congratulations to all winners of the Test Valley Business Awards 2016! It was a pleasure and an honour to meet all sponsors, supporters, winners, and those Highly Commended businesses on the evening of the incredible Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony; each one a credit to local business, and to the Test Valley!”
As well as celebrating local business achievements, every year, the Awards also recognises the importance of supporting local causes and charitable organisations. This year, choosing Andover-based charity The Hawk Conservancy Trust as charity of the year, attendees were given the chance to hear more about the Trust’s vital work in the conservation of birds of prey, whilst raising almost £1000 for this worthy cause.
Now in its 12th year, the Test Valley Business Awards – run by a steering group of volunteers and supported by the Council – has become a well-established platform to promote businesses excellence and especially to shine a light on the many new and small innovative businesses operating out of sight. It is a great way to enable smaller enterprises to gain the recognition and exposure to grow.