‘Pride’ of Chamber in Hosting its 23rd Northern Lincolnshire Business Awards

The Chamber President Kirk Akdemir presented Mike Parker with a Lifetime Achievement Award

There were 14 Awards in total and around 400 guests turned out to see who the outright winners would be from the three final nominees being honoured on the night and who would be equal runners-up.  As well as the main Awards there were also two special Awards made on the evening. A Lifetime Achievement Award was given by the Chamber to Mike Parker for amazing work done predominantly in the seafood industry and service to his local Grimsby community for which he has been awarded an MBE.

There was also a special Chamber Award for Dave Laister, who has served these Awards well over an 18 year period during his reign over all things business for Reach plc. His exceptional journalistic talents combined with fair and thorough reporting have been respected throughout the whole area and he is sorely missed. The ultimate accolade of the evening – one the judges choose from all entries and sponsored by Forrester Boyd -  went to XCeco Ltd. 

The Chamber President Kirk Akdemir welcomed guests to the event and commented on the nominations:

 “To be a shortlisted finalist is an achievement in itself and all those here tonight should be very proud.  The quality and range of the nominations this year demonstrates the kudos of these Awards, the tenacity of business in these difficult times and the talent we have in the region across so many successful businesses.  A night to celebrate for everyone.”

The theme of the evening was ‘The Lion King’ and professional performers from the London stage joined local students from Grimsby Institute and North Lindsey College in a fabulous After Dinner Show, kicked off by a display of Dwembe drumming from Grimsby Institute students. Guests also enjoyed a three course themed meal courtesy of the Lincolnshire Chef, Steven Bennett, who also sponsored a sparkling wine drinks reception and canapés.