IT was a night to remember for more than 320 people who packed into Clacton’s Princes Theatre for the third Tendring Blue Ribbon Business Awards.

There was a record number of nominations from right across the district and the star of the show was Apprentice of the Year Hannah Clark, who also went on to collect the Judges Award for the overall winner.

The awards are organised by Jamesons, Barclays and Tendring Council.

Christine Brown, from Jamesons, said: “I would go as far as to say it was the best yet and we are learning all the time. Once the dust settles we will be busy preparing for 2019.

“The businesses in Tendring have really taken the awards to their hearts and we had a tremendous response this time.

“It is all about showcasing the very best companies and individuals operating in Tendring – and there are so many of them.”

Mrs Brown thanked judges, George Keiffer, Lynda Chase-Gardener, Andy Scott and MPs Bernard Jenkin and Giles Watling.

Sadie Moore, from Barclays, said the event also raised £3,700 for St Helena Hospice.

Winners: Tradesperson of the Year – George Williams, Start Up Business – Pavey’s Estate Agent, Fast Track Growth – Luxury Box, Business in the Community – Clacton Pier, Entrepreneur of the Year – Daniel Wylie, Customer Excellence – Searles Financial, Retailer of the Year – Parker’s Garden Company, Employee of the Year – Dick Chamberlain, Employer of the Year – Dura Composites, Innovation in Design and Technology – Sta-Lok, Hospitality and Leisure – Coastal Golf, Apprentice of the Year – Hannah Clark, Team of the Year – Clacton Pavilion, Health and Wellbeing – Clacton Five Star Bootcamps, Judges Award – Hannah Clark.