THE BOROUGH’S finest were honoured in the annual Pride of Rugby Awards.
Organised by Rugby FM and supported by Cemex, the awards were handed out at a glittering ceremony at Coombe Abbey Hotel on Friday (May 12).
Speaking at the event, Rugby FM CEO Steve Orchard said: “These awards really matter. Tonight is all about you and your achievements – we are here to celebrate you.
“Being selected as a finalist means you are part of an elite cohort – the number and quality of entries was up again this year – and to get this far means you have achieved outstanding results in your nominated field. So sponsors and guests – let’s hear it for all the finalists this evening.”
Business of the Year with Cemex – Lenoch Engineering Ltd
Other finalists: Brownsover Hall Hotel; Eco-Clean & Maintenance Ltd; Opus VI
Judges agreed Lenoch Engineering was an exciting company with an excellent reputation and produces some amazing work. The business was an integral part to all of its clients as they can get things done swiftly, efficiently and to the highest standard.
Small Business of the Year with the Federation of Small Businesses – Chugg Productions Ltd and Fancy Me Ltd
Other finalists: Albert’s Menswear and Formalswear; SASS; Urban Beauty
Judges felt both Chugg Productions and Fancy Me were worth joint winners. Fancy Me showed a genuinely entrepreneurial spirit and drives the business to seek new opportunities and markets. Chugg Productions had achieved global success in an extremely difficult market to break into and thanks to them a piece of Rugby was being beamed across the globe.
Business Person of the Year with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce – Louise Golding – SASS
Other finalists: Dave Hall – Albert’s Menswear and Formalwear; Stuart Mackintosh – Opus VI
Judges were impressed with Louise and the success of SASS since it opened two years ago. Louise set out clear goals and objectives and continued to meet them and grow the business.
Town Centre Business of the Year with Keller – SASS
Other finalists: Albert’s Menswear and Formalwear; Oliv Ltd; Urban Beauty
Judges felt SASS was a strong business with a very clear vision. The boutique was welcoming, classy and encouraged footfall into the town centre.
Hospitality Business of the Year with Coombe Abbey Hotel – Brownsover Hall Hotel
Other finalists: Cinnamon Lounge; Oliv Ltd
Judges all agreed that having a destination hotel for the town was important and that Brownsover Hall did just that with its distinctiveness and quality. It regularly received great feedback and the hotel was constantly looking at ways in which to improve and grow.
Customer Care Award with Handelsbanken – Sammie Lou Bridal Couture
Other finalists: Rainsbrook Veterinary Group; SASS
Judges commented that Customer Care was at the core of the business and that Sammie Lou Bridal Couture go above and beyond to deliver an exception experience to all of its clients.
Team of the Year with the Rugby Advertiser – The Bradby Club
Other finalists: ConnectWELL Volunteer Team; Moriaty’s Community Café; Rugby Town Junior Football Club
Judges commented the Bradby Club team work was extremely effectively, reaching out to the community despite budget restraints. The club has been an important part of the Rugby community for years with hundreds of local people benefiting from the activities offered and this would not be possible without the strong team behind the club who give so much back.
Carer of the Year with Warwickshire Community and Voluntary Action – Thomas Wood
Other finalists: Annette Collier; Betty Fallon; Dawn Thurkettle; Donna Cave
Judges agreed Thomas was a clear winner in this category. He had coped with life changing events admirably and was an inspirational example to all.
Young Achiever of the Year with nationwide Windows and Doors – Daisy Howden
Other finalists: Emily Inns; Leah Evans
Judges were really impressed with Daisy’s story and her journey through the years. She was an inspirational young lady who continued to give back to others and to the community.
Citizen of the Year with BT Supply Chain – Joanne Finney
Other finalists – Fay McSorley; Malcolm Hancock; Rachel Fordham; Rosemary & Frank Preston
Judges loved the nomination for Joanne and commented she was an outstanding woman who seemed to leave a lasting impression on everyone that she meets.
Educator of the Year with Houlton – St Andrews Benn C of E Primary School
Other finalists: ASH Stage Productions; Brian Lowe
Judges commented St Andrew Benn Primary School had achieved great outcomes through the leadership of its current head and was achieving great outcomes during constrained times. Outstanding OFSTED and parental feedback.
Long Service Volunteer of the Year with GE Power Conversion – Darron Forrest and Mike Rigby
Other finalists: David Norton; Jim Cave; Maria Smith
Judges awarded this accolade to two individuals. Darron Forest uses his energy to help others and influence young people in a positive way. Mike Rigby from The Friends of St Cross has served the people of the town for years and his hard work and dedication would have had an impact on everyone in the town.
Rugby’s Pride Award with Rugby Borough Council – Rugby Autism Network
Other finalists: Bloodbikes; Hope 4; New Directions (Rugby); Trevor Hoyte
Judges agreed unanimously that Rugby Autism Network was such a worthy recipient of this accolade. Their hard work and support to others had made a real difference to improving the lives of others across the borough.
