TWO Herefordshire businesses were among those celebrated when 570 business people from across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and beyond gathered at the Worcester Arena for the Chamber Business Awards, sponsored by Sanlam.

Pembridge-based Kingspan Insulation were named manufacturer of the year while Haygrove Ltd, from Ledbury, took the award as exporter of the year.

More than 50 finalists were shortlisted in 11 categories, ranging from most promising new business to high growth business of the year.

Guests were welcomed by Sharon Smith, Chief Executive of H & W Chamber, before host David Meade took to the stage. Fast becoming one of Europe’s most sought after speakers, David entertained the audience with his humour and by reading the minds of members of the audience on stage.

Angus Davison, chairman and owner of Haygrove Ltd, said: “We are proud of the team of over 150 people working in Ledbury to have been recognised as the Herefordshire and Worcestershire 2017 Exporter of the Year, and for our colleagues as far afield as Australia, Chile, China, and South Africa.

"It takes dedication and expertise to manage this fascinatingly diverse and quite complex export business in a fast moving fresh industry much affected by climate change.”

The finale of the awards ceremony was the announcement of the winner of winners which went to International Glazing Services of Kidderminster.

Sharon Smith, chief executive of H & W Chamber, said: “Another spectacular event celebrating the amazing growth, expertise and innovation of businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. It was brilliant to welcome 570 key business people for an evening of entertainment, networking and celebration. Congratulations to all the winners”.