Stars of Weston’s commercial community were celebrated last week at the second annual Weston Business Awards.

Weston Mercury: Vinnie's partner Sarah Penfold accepts the award from John Penrose and Nigel Dando.Vinnie's partner Sarah Penfold accepts the award from John Penrose and Nigel Dando. (Image: Archant)

Weston Chamber of Commerce organised the awards scheme, which culminated in a gala charity dinner for around 140 guests at the Royal Hotel.

Awards were handed out to companies, charities or individuals in 10 different categories, ranging from achievements in environmental practice to customer service.

The winners were:

Best Night-Time Venue: Vinnie’s

Weston Mercury: All of the winners of the Weston Business Awards with John Penrose MP and Nigel DandoAll of the winners of the Weston Business Awards with John Penrose MP and Nigel Dando (Image: Archant)

Green Business: Somerset Wood Recycling

Outstanding Customer Service (Outside BID): Pete Lowery, Weston Golf Club

Love Weston: Grand Pier

FSB Innovation: Broadway Lodge

New Employee: Damon Gallivan, Weston College

Making A Difference: Lighthouse

Outstanding Customer Service (Inside BID): Diane Knowles, Rose and Amber

Vicki Brett Award – Businesswoman Of The Year: Tracy Garrett, Lambtrad/McDonald’s

Sian Lloyd-Jones Award – New Business Of The Year: Will Jeffries, Authentic Digital

The evening was hosted by town MP John Penrose and journalist Nigel Dando, who both heralded the town’s strong business community, and spoke of their hopes for even further growth in the wake of Banksy’s Dismaland exhibition in 2015.

Those who won awards have since spoken of their pride at being named among the winners.

Sarah Penfold, a partner at Vinnie’s bar in West Street, said she was delighted the venue had been picked among the year’s best.

She said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won this local award after running this venue for a year.

“We firmly believe that we offer a safe and entertaining venue not only for the locals but also for any visitors to Weston, and we look forward to welcoming new visitors throughout the year. We would thank everybody who nominated and voted for us.”

And Damon Gallivan, a recruitment and sales apprentice at Weston college, was equally thrilled to hear his name read out.

Damon said: “It showed that all the hard work which I have put in has been recognised. The award has made me more motivated to be able to push on and keep improving.”

The awards night also helped to raise money for Lighthouse and Weston Hospicecare.