The Mansfield and Ashfield business community has celebrated the best of the best in an awards ceremony dubbed the best ever.

Mansfield and Ashfield 2020 welcomed more than 250 guests at its annual Business Awards and Ball, held at the John Fretwell Sporting Complex, Sookholme.

Winners included Liz Barrett, who took home the Outstanding Contribution Award, and Juice Stored Energy, which was named Business of the Year.

Liz, principal at the Academy Transformation Trust Further Education (ATTFE), said: “The awards were the best yet, a stunning evening of shared local support, encouragement, and celebration.

“It was fabulous to have so many people together in a room appreciating what each other achieve for our area and beyond. There was laughter, whooping, tears of joy, and new business connections made.

“I am humbled to have been blessed to receive the Outstanding Commitment Award. It was a night I will treasure forever.”

Andrew Clarke, of Juice Stored Energy — a new member of Mansfield and Ashfield 2020 — said: “In just a few short months we have enjoyed increased key contacts through networking events and have been fortunate in being voted Business of the Year 2023.

“The awards event itself was an oasis of quality. It might sound a little sensationalist, but our observation and experience matched any of the industry events we support from London to Edinburgh. It was an exceptionally well-run event.”

Lashes Foundation was Charity of the Year for a second successive year, while Oakmont Glazing Systems was New Business of the Year and ATTFE College won the Commitment to the Community Award.

Apprentice of the Year was Charlie Kerry, of Jephson Shopfitters.

The Excellence in Innovation & Design accolade went to Swedx UK, while the Customer Focus Initiative Award went to Rufford Abbey Country Park.

In the Sustainability and the Environment category, honours went to FJD Tyres. In the Entrepreneurial Spirit section, Ben Gammon, of Infinite AV, took home the honours.

Jane Box, of Your Property Management, who is chairman of Mansfield and Ashfield 2020, said: “Yet again it was another incredible evening celebrating the best in business across Mansfield and Ashfield.

“We are so proud of the range, scope, and superb quality we have right here on our doorstep. This truly is a great place to do business.”

The awards headline sponsor was Cowans Group. B Jephson Mansfield Ltd was the drinks sponsor.

For more about Ashfield and Mansfield 2020, visit mansfieldandashfield2020.com.