Community businesses across the district were celebrated at a special awards evening.

The 12th annual Cherwell Business Awards 2024 celebrated the best of the district's business community.

The ceremony, held at The Chesterton Hotel on Friday (September 13), was a night of honour for the district's outstanding leaders, businesses, and charitable organisations.

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It was attended by nearly 240 guests from across the district, with Aaron Williams hosting the evening's proceedings.

This year's awards featured 34 finalists across 12 categories, reflecting the diverse and vibrant nature of the district's business community.

Over the years, the awards have become a platform for winners to propel their success, while recognising the dedication and achievements of all nominees.

Guests were treated to a drinks reception, a three-course dinner, stand-up comedy by Aaron Williams, and live music by band Under the Covers.

The 2024 Cherwell Business Awards winners are:

- The Becky Moyce Tribute Award: Barbara Allsworth, Begbroke Science Park - The Bicester Village – Charity and Community Award: Banbury Community Fridge - The Bicester Vision and Wednesday Business Club – Small Business Award: Oxford Duplication Centre - The Ellacotts – Business Person of the Year Award: Richard Boon, Webmart - The High Spec Composites – Engineering Excellence Award: EZ Charge - The Kärcher – Young Business Person of the Year Award: Dean Moore, Deanos Garage - The CBA – Sustainable Business Award: Ace Training - The Oxford Technology Park – Innovation Award: Conserv Bioscience - The OJI Marketing – New Business Award: Zimbl - The SE-Solicitors – Large Business Award: Tech Professionals - The Wild Property Consultancy – Town Centre Award: The Light

The prestigious Overall Cherwell Winner Award 2024, sponsored by Norbar Torque Tools, was awarded to Care & Independence.

Placi Espejo, chair of the awards, said: "The Awards Gala Dinner is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the passion, innovation, diversity, and resilience of the Cherwell District’s business community.

"It shines a spotlight on the local businesses and community groups that are driving growth and success, showcasing the incredible power of collaboration and dedication.

"We are fortunate to be part of this thriving community, and it highlights the importance of supporting local businesses as we look forward to an exciting future for Cherwell."

£1,580 was raised during the evening, with Bicester Village matching this amount, bringing the total to £3,160.

The winning charity, Banbury Community Fridge, will receive £1,580, with the finalists, ARCh and Style Acre, each receiving £790.