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The Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce surprised themselves with the enormous success of their first STAR Awards. The presentation night took place at Weymouth College with over 120 business owners and guests in attendance.
Thanks to Dan Roads Photography for all his 257 STAR photos on our Flickr page https://bit.ly/2Pv8bX2
The evening began with welcome drinks in the newly launched ‘Avenue Restaurant’, where members of the Chamber chatted with the excited finalists and were entertained by the first tune from the very talented Lewis on the piano.
Guests then entered the beautifully decorated Fleet Restaurant where President Andrew Knowles welcomed everybody explaining how the STAR Award idea emerged:
“We have launched these awards as part of the chamber’s 100th-year activity. We wanted to do something that would help promote the full range of businesses in the Weymouth and Portland area. Many of these businesses give outstanding service to their customers, and we wanted this to be recognised. At the same time, we have to look at ways to continually improve what we offer. Entry was free and all entrants were visited by a trained secret shopper. The entrants got a detailed report covering the findings which can only improve standards further.”
Carl Ashwin from Wessex FM was the compere for the evening and began by introducing Harry Lake and Victoria Ford, College Performing Arts Students who performed ‘Rewrite the Stars’ from the Greatest Showman, a very appropriate start to dinner being served.
After the superb meal from the level 1 and 2 Catering and Hospitality students it was time for the Awards to begin, with an introduction from the Arts students of their version of ‘Reach for the Stars’ by S Club 7.
The Awards were introduced by Carl Ashwin and each category business sponsor announced the winner to much applause and cheering by all.
Winners
Roger’s Coffee Shop – Best Community Involvement Award thanks to sponsor – Weyforward
Craftlines – Best New Business Award thanks to sponsor Dorset – Showhomes
Eight Kings – Most Welcoming Reception Award thanks to sponsor – Weymouth College
Pretty Bland – Best Customer Service Award thanks to sponsor – Weymouth BID
Dorset Burger Company – Best Social Media & Website Award thanks to sponsor – Medisave
Boho Gelato – Best Window and Internal Display Award thanks to sponsor – WPCC Pat from Mona’s Thai and Asian Cuisine – Best Individual Member of Staff Award thanks to sponsor – Agincare
Eight Kings – Overall Winner Sponsorship thanks to sponsor Wessex FM
Not everyone was a winner but all had a fantastic time and felt this event should be repeated next year.
Photos courtesy of Dan Roads Photography
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