The Cherwell Business Awards’ eleventh annual ceremony was an evening of celebration and recognition for the exceptional leaders, companies, and charitable organisations in Cherwell. Held at The Chesterton Hotel on Friday 8th September 2023, the event was hosted by the charismatic Aaron Williams and brought together nearly 250 guests from across the district.
The awards spotlighted 35 finalists across 13 Awards, celebrating a diverse cross-section of Cherwell’s business community. Over the years, the Cherwell Business Awards has served as a springboard to future success for many, while simultaneously applauding the hard work and accomplishments of its winners.
Guests at the event were treated to a delightful drink’s reception and a sumptuous three-course dinner, all while being pleasantly surprised by singing waiters and a talented band that added a captivating musical touch to the evening.
A highlight of the evening was a fundraising prize draw that featured prizes generously donated by sponsors and supporters. This initiative raised over £2,000, with Bicester Village matching the amount, bringing the total to £4,000. This means the winning charity – Nai’s House will receive £2,000 donation and the finalists – Forget Me Not Bicester and Dementia Active, each receiving £1,000.
The 2023 Cherwell Business Awards winners are as follows:
- The Becky Moyce Tribute Award: Wendy Tindsley, Oxford Innovation
- The Bicester Village – Charity and Community Award: Nai’s House CIO
- The Bicester Vision and Wednesday Business Club – Small Business Award: Bicester Wills
- The Ellacotts – Business Person of the Year Award: Katie Roberts – The Just Dance Company
- The High Spec Composites – Engineering Excellence Award: The Little Car Company
- The Kärcher – Young Business person of the Year Award: Nairne Barker – Abingdon and Witney College
- The Nicholsons – Sustainable Business Award: Cherwell Collective, CIC
- The Oxford Technology Park – Innovation Award: FitnessGenes
- The OJI Marketing – New Business Award: Darcica Logistics
- The SE-Solicitors – Large Business Award: Tugo Food Systems
- The Wild Property Consultancy – Town Centre Award: Lock 29
- The Engineering Trust – Apprentice Employer of the Year Award: Specsavers Kidlington
In addition to these categories, the Overall Cherwell Winner Award 2023, sponsored by Norbar Torque Tools, was awarded to Lock 29—a unique destination in Banbury that breathes new life into the canal-side area. Offering diverse food and drink artisans, a casual pop-up cinema, community events, and an independent retail space, Lock 29 revitalises the community and provides an exceptional experience for all.
Placi Espejo, Chair of the Cherwell Business Awards, said:
“We are delighted to be at The Chesterton Hotel this year and put on a real celebratory event for all who attended. Congratulations to all the finalists, winners and a huge thank you to all the sponsors and supporters of this year’s awards.”
The awards team will now start preparing for 2024, and if you would like to be involved in next year’s event, then please contact Placi Espejo or Marie Parkinson by email: admin@cherwellbusinessawards.co.uk.