The twelfth annual Cherwell Business Awards ceremony was a night of celebration, honouring the outstanding leaders, businesses, and charitable organisations that make Cherwell District a hub of innovation and community spirit. Held at The Chesterton Hotel on Friday 13th September 2024, the event brought together nearly 240 guests from across the district, with the charismatic Aaron Williams hosting the evening’s proceedings.
This year’s awards showcased 34 finalists across 12 categories, reflecting the diverse and vibrant nature of Cherwell District’s business community. Over the years, the Cherwell Business Awards has become a platform for winners to propel their success, while recognising the dedication and achievements of all nominees.
Guests were treated to a lively drinks reception, a delicious three-course dinner, stand-up comedy by Aaron Williams, and live music by the band Under the Covers, making the evening both memorable and entertaining.
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
Additionally, the prestigious Overall Cherwell Winner Award 2024, sponsored by Norbar Torque Tools, was awarded to Care & Independence.
Cherwell District Council was the headline sponsor.
Placi Espejo, Chair of the Cherwell Business Awards, shared her thoughts on the event:
“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.”
In a show of generosity from the businesses who attended, £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.
The awards team is now preparing for Cherwell Business Awards 2025. If you would like to be involved in next year’s event, please contact Placi Espejo or Marie Parkinson by email at admin@cherwellbusinessawards.co.uk.