Companies from across the borough gathered at the Old Town Hall last night for the inaugural Newham Chamber of Commerce business awards.
The ceremony, which was also attended by MPs Lyn Brown and Stephen Timms, the Mayor of Newham, Sir Robin Wales, and councillors, recognised the efforts and achievements of entrepreneurs and businesses.
Winners in each of the nine categories were then put forward for the business of the year award, which was run by The Who International.
It is the parent company of The Who Shop, in Barking Road, Upton Park, and sells Doctor Who merchandise for fans of all ages.
Alexandra Loosely-Saul, who set up the business, said: “I feel delighted to have won. It’s down to the fantastic work of our staff.”
Other winners on the night include Aardra Systems Ltd, a family-run water management business.
The company was represented on the night by mother and son Meena and Dharmesh Joshi, from Forest Gate.
Dharmesh said: “It’s great that, coming from Newham, we’ve been recognised.”
A special lifetime achievement award was presented to Thomas and Janet Dooner.
The couple have run the Railway Tavern, in Stratford, for 50 years.
Janet said: “This was a total surprise. I’m part of the Chamber and they’ve managed to keep it a complete secret.”
The full list of winners are:
Community involvement, sponsored by Gallions Reach Shopping Park - Caritas Anchor House
Young entrepreneur of the year, sponsored by Newham London - London Academy of IT Ltd
Best innovation, sponsored by ASR Tate and Lyle - The Who International
E-business, sponsored by Lall Ondhia - Cervello Financial Planning
Green business, sponsored by Wiseman Lee Solicitors and Bridgeman Cleaning Services - Aardra Systems Ltd
Training, development and supporting education, sponsored by Newham College - Harrow Green
Sole trader/micro business of the year, sponsored by McDonalds - The Problem Solving Company Ltd
Customer services, sponsored by Newham Pubwatch - Inline Removals and Storage Ltd
Business person of the year, sponsored by London City Airport - Arit Eminue from Diva Training Ltd
Business of the year, sponsored by Aspers Casino - The Who International
Lifetime achievement award - Thomas and Janet Dooner, the Railway Tavern
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