The success and achievements of local businesses was celebrated at the fourth Bridport Business Awards this week. 

The ceremony was held at Highlands End Holiday Park in Eype on Wednesday afternoon, with representatives from local businesses and sponsors enjoying a networking session over coffee and a lunch before the prizes were handed out. 

Despite the first Bridport Business Awards being held just one week before the lockdown in 2020, the concept has blossomed and grown since then, with more nominations every year. 

Organised by Marketing West, which hosts awards ceremonies across the county, the event celebrated how local businesses create employment, innovate, open new markets, and boost the area's economy. 

About 50 local business leaders, sponsors and guests attended yesterday's ceremony, with the awards presented by the Mayor of Bridport, Cllr Ian Bark. 

The mayor outlined his views on the awards saying: "This the third occasion, as Mayor, I have been privileged to attend this wonderful celebration of the Bridport business community, and what a rollercoaster those three years have been. 

"Today despite the current economic difficulties covered on the national news it's great to see local businesses being both celebrated and celebrating. Bridport is lucky to have so many fantastic businesses in our area and they deserve to be recognised. 

"I am particularly pleased to see entries into the Green/Eco category increasing year on year yet again."

This view was echoed by Adam Hillier, senior associate solicitor at Battens Solicitors' new Bridport Office, which was one of the event sponsors. 

He said: We are delighted to support the Bridport Business Awards and the vibrant local business community, where we will soon be opening our new office in West Street. 

"We are investing in the area because Bridport has a positive business future with a talented pool of business entrepreneurs. These awards celebrate and champion these businesses." 

Robert Mühl, president of the Bridport Chamber for Business, added: "The Bridport Business Chamber is the voice for Bridport businesses, so we are thrilled to see the hard work and commitment of our wonderful local businesses being recognised. 

"It's vital that in the next year, we all support each other because together, we're stronger. 

"Congratulations to all the winners and we look forward to working with them to make Bridport a great place to live and work."

The West Dorset Magazine came away as Business of the Year, also picking up New Business of the Year. 

Other awards winners were as follows:

Café, Pub and Casual Dining - Mercato Ilaliano 

Health and Fitness Business - Hurt Locker Gym 

Green/Eco Business of the Year - West Bay Discovery Centre 

Family Business of the Year - Heavers of Bridport 

Outstanding Customer Service - Creeds Design and Print 

Retail Business of the Year - Smith and Smith 

Independent Business of the Year - Bridport PC Repair 

Best Place to Work - Art Unlimited 

Arts & Crafts Business of the Year - Aperture Photographics 

Young Entrepreneur of the Year - Rich Harvey, Hurt Locker Gym