A great success.

The verdict on the first Shaftesbury Business Awards after 15 of the town’s finest businesses, and individuals, were singled out for recognition.

The Grosvenor Arms hosted yesterday’s event with more than 60 business leaders celebrating the range and quality of businesses in the town.

Cllr Piers Brown, Mayor of Shaftesbury, and sponsors presented the awards which were spread over 15 categories.

Shirley Allum Boutique Fashions & Lingerie, pictured, was named as the overall Business of the Year.

Nigel Reeve, of Marketing West, organisers of the awards, said: “We knew there was great interest in the awards from local businesses when we received over 150 entries and nominations.

“Supporting local businesses has never been more important.

“They drive the local economy, they innovate and they create jobs.

“We hope, in a small way, these awards help build their profile and make people realise what a great choice of businesses they have on their doorstep.

“I’d also like to thank the sponsors, many of which are Shaftesbury businesses, for making these awards possible.”

The awards concluded with the announcement that Gillingham is next in line to have its own business awards.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in early summer.

The second year of the Shaftesbury Business Awards was also confirmed with the final scheduled for January 2024.

Dorset Biz News is proud to be the county-wide Official Media Partner for the awards.

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Gallery – Shaftesbury Business Awards 2022-23 winners, pictures by Paul Collins/PC Visuals

New Business of the Year: Dan Pitman Media – Photo & Film. Barry White receiving on behalf of the winner.

Café, Pub, Casual Dining: The Salt Cellar.

Beauty/Fashion: JLA Beauty.

Green/Eco: Coconut and Cotton.

Health & Fitness: CrossFit Shaftesbury.

Customer Service: Elite Garages.

Family Business: La Fleur de Lys Hotel & Restaurant.

Retail: Willow Shaftesbury.

Innovation: Wessex Fire and Security.

Young Entrepreneur: Brad Hansford, Meyers Estates.

Best Place to Work: Shirley Allum Boutique Fashions & Lingerie.

Independent Business: Kit & Kaboodle.

B2B Business: The Wincombe Centre.

Best use of Digital: Woodfrys Farm.

Artisan/Crafts: Golden Snowdrop.

Overall Winner: Shirley Allum Boutique Fashions & Lingerie.