Our Winners
Our Winners will be announced on 27th February 2025 (4pm / 9pm) and posted here on 1st March 2026.
Business of the Year
Service Master Clean by Deeland
Testimonial
ServiceMaster Clean Reading & Newbury has demonstrated exceptional business performance, operational excellence and customer commitment. The judges were impressed by their consistent growth, high service standards and ability to build long-term client relationships across the region. Combining professionalism, innovation and a strong team culture, they set a benchmark within their sector — making them a truly deserving Business of the Year winner.
The SME of The Year
Right at Home Maidenhead, Marlow & Henley
Testimonial
Right at Home Maidenhead, Marlow & Henley has demonstrated exceptional growth, leadership and service excellence within the homecare sector. The judges were impressed by its strong operational performance, outstanding client satisfaction and deep community roots. Combining commercial success with compassionate care and a dedicated team culture, this organisation exemplifies what a thriving SME should be —
a truly worthy winner.
New Start-Up of The Year
uKids
Testimonial
uKids has made an impressive entrance into the market, delivering high-quality, child-focused services with energy and clear purpose. The judges were struck by the strength of its vision, early growth and commitment to creating safe, engaging environments for young people. With strong foundations and a passion-driven leadership team, uKids is a highly deserving New Start-Up of the Year.
The Employer of The Year
Right at Home Maidenhead, Marlow & Henley
Testimonial
Right at Home Maidenhead, Marlow & Henley stands out for its unwavering commitment to both clients and its care team. The judges were impressed by its supportive culture, investment in training and genuine focus on staff wellbeing. By creating a positive, values-driven workplace, the organisation delivers exceptional care standards — making them
a truly deserving Employer of the Year.
Male Entrepreneur
Allan Smith (ATS Group)
Testimonial
Allan Smith has demonstrated outstanding leadership in growing ATS Group into a highly respected and forward-thinking organisation. The judges were impressed by his strategic vision, commitment to innovation and ability to build a strong, values-driven team. His entrepreneurial drive, consistent business growth and dedication to excellence make him a truly deserving Male Entrepreneur of the Year
Female Entrepreneur of The Year
Kim Shamtally (Muscle Mechanics)
Testimonial
Kim Shamtally has built Muscle Mechanics with vision, expertise and an unwavering commitment to client wellbeing. The judges were impressed by her specialist knowledge, strong brand growth and dedication to delivering exceptional results through a science-led, personalised approach. Her leadership, resilience and passion for empowering others to perform at their best make her a truly deserving Female Entrepreneur of the Year
Young Entrepreneur of The Year
Luke & Owen Buckmaster (DoughBoys Pizza)
Testimonial
Luke and Owen Buckmaster have shown remarkable ambition, creativity and business acumen in building Doughboys Pizza from a start-up into a fast-growing brand supplying thousands of UK venues and major retail partners. The judges were impressed by their resilience, innovation and leadership at such a young age, making them truly deserving winners of Young Entrepreneur of the Year!
Networker of The Year
Nikki Burns
Testimonial
Nikki Burns is an exceptional connector who brings businesses and individuals together with energy, authenticity and purpose. The judges were impressed by her ability to build meaningful relationships, create supportive networks and generate tangible opportunities for others. Her dedication to collaboration and community-driven growth has made a significant impact across the region, making her a highly deserving Networker of the Year
The Apprentice of The Year
Ali Khaled (Lucy Electric)
Testimonial
Ali Khaled has demonstrated exceptional growth, resilience and technical ability throughout his apprenticeship. The judges were particularly impressed by his analytical thinking, creativity and proactive attitude across multiple engineering rotations. His natural leadership in mentoring fellow apprentices, combined with strong communication and problem-solving skills, sets him apart. Ali is a remarkable talent with a very
bright future ahead.
Business Leader of The Year
Lucy Alexander Spencer
Testimonial
Lucy Alexander Spencer has shown exceptional vision and determination in building Education Boutique into a highly respected, specialist education provider. The judges were impressed by her innovative approach, commitment to quality and unwavering focus on supporting young people to achieve their potential. Her leadership combines commercial strength with genuine social impact, making her a truly
deserving Business Leader of the Year
Innovator of The Year Award
Occuity
Testimonial
Occuity is revolutionising healthcare diagnostics through groundbreaking, non-invasive optical technology. The judges were highly impressed by the company’s commitment to precision, research excellence and real-world clinical impact. Their innovative approach has the potential to transform early detection and patient care globally. Combining scientific expertise with commercial vision, Occuity is a truly deserving Innovator of the Year
The Charity of The Year
HEROS Charity
Testimonial
HEROS Charity provides transformational support to vulnerable and disadvantaged young people through its innovative equine-assisted programmes. The judges were inspired by the charity’s hands-on approach, using horses to build confidence, resilience and employability skills in those facing significant barriers. Their measurable outcomes, dedicated team and lasting community impact make HEROS Charity a truly deserving Charity of the Year winner
Outstanding Contribution to The Community
Helen & Douglas House
Testimonial
Helen & Douglas House provides extraordinary care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families, offering compassion, dignity and stability when it matters most. The judges were deeply impressed by the scale of their regional impact, their dedicated team and volunteers, and their ability to adapt and sustain vital services in challenging times. Their work goes far beyond hospice care — they are a cornerstone of community support and truly deserving winners of this award.
Lifetime of Achievement
Andy Dickens
Testimonial
Andy Dickens has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication within the charitable sector, making a significant impact on vulnerable individuals and families across Reading. His strategic vision, ability to secure vital funding, and commitment to collaboration have strengthened essential community services. The judges were particularly impressed by his integrity, compassion and lasting influence — making him a truly deserving recipient of this Lifetime Achievement Award”
The Leisure & Tourism Award
The Red Lion Woodcote
Testimonial
The Red Lion Woodcote is a standout destination, combining exceptional hospitality with a strong sense of community. The judges were impressed by its commitment to quality, welcoming atmosphere and ability to attract visitors while remaining a valued local hub. Its contribution to the regional leisure and tourism sector, alongside consistent customer excellence, makes it a truly deserving winner
Solopreneur of the Year
Lara Bennington (Blossom & Achieve)
Testimonial
Lara Bennington has built
Blossom & Achieve with passion, authenticity and a clear commitment to empowering others. As a solopreneur, she demonstrates outstanding dedication, delivering meaningful impact through her personalised approach and unwavering client focus. The judges were impressed by her ability to grow a values-driven business independently while making a genuine difference. A truly
inspiring and deserving winner.