AN awards ceremony crowning the best of Bridport and the surrounding areas once again celebrated top local businesses in the region. 

12 prizes were up for grabs in what was the fourth year of the awards.

The ceremony took place on Thursday, February 10 at Highlands End Holiday Park near Bridport.

West Dorset Magazine triumphed in two categories claiming the prestigious 'Overall Business of the Year' prize as well as 'New Business of the Year'.

The magazine was created by experienced journalists Miranda Robertson and Karen Bate.

Another double winner was Rich Harvey who was awarded 'Young Entrepreneur of the Year' as well as 'Health and Fitness Business of the Year' for his gym 'Hurt Locker.'

Among the other winners included Mercato Italiano in the Cafe, Pub, Dining category.

Bridport PC Repairs earned Independent Business of the Year and Heavers of Bridport won Family Business of the Year.

Prize winners in full:

  • Arts and crafts - Aperture Photographics
  • Independent business - Bridport PC Repairs
  • Green/Eco business - West Bay Discovery Centre
  • New business - West Dorset Magazine
  • Customer Service - Creeds
  • Young entrepreneur - Rich Harvey
  • Family business - Heavers of Bridport
  • Cafe, pub, dining - Mercato Italiano
  • Best place to work - Art Unlimited
  • Health and fitness - Hurt Locker
  • Retail business - Smith and Smith
  • Overall business - West Dorset Magazine