Photographer Helen Rowan was among the winners at the inaugural Chesterfield Business Awards.
Helen, whose photography regularly appears in Reflections, won the Sole Trader of the Year award in the event at Casa Hotel.
More than 150 business leaders gathered to celebrate the awards, recognising the organisations driving innovation, investment and economic growth across the borough.
Supported by headline sponsor SMH Mitchells, part of the SMH Group, alongside a range of category sponsors and partners including the University of Derby, the awards celebrated businesses that are creating jobs, investing in people, delivering outstanding customer service and making a positive contribution to our communities.
The awards were created by Pure Awards’ Lucinda White and delivered in partnership with Chrissie Rowell, of Black Hare Marketing and Events.
Chrissie Rowell said: “The standard of entries was outstanding, and the support from sponsors, judges, finalists and guests has been phenomenal. These awards were created to champion the businesses that make Chesterfield such a fantastic place to work and do business, and the atmosphere on the night proved just how much our business community deserves to be celebrated. We’re already excited about making next year’s awards even bigger.”
Lucinda White added: “Every single entry told a story of ambition, resilience and achievement. It has been a privilege to help create an awards programme that genuinely recognises excellence while giving businesses the opportunity to celebrate everything they have accomplished.”
The awards event raised £1,322 for Chesterfield Animal Rescue. The funding will support the charity’s work to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome vulnerable animals across the region.
Winners were: Best Enterprising Business (up to 10 employees): Edwards Employment Solutions Ltd; Best Enterprising Business (11+ employees): Banner Jones Solicitors; Excellence in Customer Service: Banner Jones Solicitors; Employer of the Year: Dalton Roofing; Best Community Impact: Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust; Best Business Growth: Ellenvale Interiors; Best New Business: CRIT; Sole Trader of the Year: Helen Rowan Photography; Inspiring Business Person of the Year: Martin Wallis-Keyworth; Business of the Year: Ellenvale Interiors