On Friday night, Cowes Yacht Haven was transformed for the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism & Industry Business Awards.
Bedecked in the theme of ‘fire and ice,’ the venue really looked the part. A jazz band made up of members mostly from Bournemouth provided the music, as attendees were dined and wined before the awards ceremony took place.
Compering for the evening was Paul Topping from IW Radio, who along with The County Press, were sponsors of the event.
As shortlisted businesses in each category were announced, the room filled with applause, which intensified as the winners were announced.
So who managed to beat off the competition you ask?
– NatWest New Business Award – Wightquote
– Lloyds TSB ‘IW Lottery’ Small Business Award – ICR Touch
– UKTI International Business Award – Strainstall
– Southern Vectis Green Business Award – The Really Green Holiday Co
– Wightlink Employee Development Award – Island Day Nurseries
– Red Funnel Distribution New Business Award – Southern Vectis
– Inflight Peripherals Manufacturing & Technology Award – Vikoma International
– GoWight Tourism & Leisure Award – Seaview Wildlife Encounter
– Red Funnel Holidays Accommodation & Hospitality Award – Really Green Holiday Co
– HTP Retail & Service Industry Award – Gardenia Florists
IW County Press Professional & Business Services Award – Cross Print
But the awards didn’t stop there.
A special award was presented to Eddie Minghella for his contribution to business on the Island.
Vikoma International received the IW Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award.
Island bus company, Southern Vectis, received the IW Chamber of Commerce Member of the Year Award.
And finally, to a standing ovation, IW Festival Promoter, John Giddings received the rather large President’s Cup for the IW Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year Award.
All shortlisted businesses also received a commendation from the chamber for making it onto the shortlist.
Image: JohnGiddings.com
