My article this month is very much an opportunity to say thank you.
South Holland Enterprise and Business Awards 2013
This took place on November 20 and I would like to say a big thank you to our sponsors, speakers and congratulations to the winners:
Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Butters Group, was won by We’ll Let Your House.
Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by Boston College, was won by Demi Blackbourn at Drive By Website.
Customer Care Award, sponsored by Chattertons Solicitors, was won by Maples Solicitors.
Business Innovation Award, sponsored by Duncan & Toplis, was won by West Elloe Pharmacy.
Supporting the Community Award, sponsored by Definitions Health & Fitness Gym, was won by Bakkavor.
Best use of IT & Communication Award, sponsored by South Holland District Council, was won by PSP IT Design & Development
A special award was made for Excellence in Professional Services which went to Barry Ingman. Barry was the Co-ordinator for Crash and latterly ShopWatch until he handed over to Stuart Brotherton earlier this year. He has made a real positive difference to the levels of crime in Spalding and helped to reduce the fear of crime.
My thanks to guest speakers Jamie Cooper from Network Rail who informed delegates of the £280m GNGE upgrade project and the potential business opportunities this will bring to Lincolnshire. He also made us aware of road crossing barrier upgrades that have been delayed from Christmas and Easter but will now take place in Spalding next summer.
Ursula Lidbetter from Lincolnshire Co-operative, shared details of her various roles as chair of Business in the Community East Midlands, Lincoln Business Improvement District, Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership. Shortly after our event it was announced that she took over as chair of the Co-op group. A big challenge but one she will undoubtedly take in her stride.
My thanks also to Spalding Chamber Council members, David Norton and Paul Turnell for organising the event which was well received by the 120 business delegates.
Christmas Festival and light switch on.
This took place on November 17 and was organised by Tulip Radio on behalf of Spalding & District Chamber of Commerce. I would add my thanks to Jan Whitbourn to the many contributors on the day who made the town centre sparkle. It was a superb day culminating in Santa ably assisted by Inca Honnor the Flower Queen and John Hayes, MP who switched on the lights.
Shop locally this Christmas
I ask you to support Spalding’s shops, particularly when you are considering purchasing your Christmas presents. I know it is tempting to be lured to Peterborough or to use the internet but if we don’t support our shops we will lose them.
Join us in Chamber
Please take a few minutes to look at our website www.spaldingareachamber.co.uk and you will see our aims and activities. We strive to represent our members and be the “Business Voice” in South Holland.