Firms in and around Romford were hailed as heroes at the second annual Havering Small Business Awards.

The ceremony, held at Premier Cinemas in Romford yesterday (Wednesday, May 17), saw businesses in nine categories recognised for their contribution to the community and local economy. More than 19,000 votes were received this year for top three businesses in each category.

The prizes included a trophy, a certificate and vinyl “winners” stickers they can display on their business premises.  

Best Sellers, a Hornchurch-based multi-retailer, won two awards and was also named as ‘Havering Small Business of the Year’.

Romford Recorder: Best Sellers were presented their trophy by Julie Frost, Director of Romford Business Improvement DistrictBest Sellers were presented their trophy by Julie Frost, Director of Romford Business Improvement District (Image: Riddhi Kachhela)

Havering Mayor Cllr Trevor McKeever spoke at the event. He said: “Today it is absolutely fantastic to see all small businesses getting an appreciation for what they do because they invigorate Havering and make it a better place to live."

Romford Recorder: Councillor Trevor Mckeever, the Mayor of Havering, pictured at the ceremonyCouncillor Trevor Mckeever, the Mayor of Havering, pictured at the ceremony (Image: Riddhi Kachhela)

Havering Council leader Cllr Ray Morgon congratulated the winners. He said: “They (the winners and nominees) reflect the positive role that all our businesses play in shaping, improving and supporting our borough’s bright future.”

Julie Frost, director of Romford Business Improvement District, which was one of the sponsors, said the “shop local” mantra continues to grow within Havering.

She added: “So I expect these awards to continue to grow in popularity and predict there will be even more entries in 2024!”

Romford Recorder: Ray Morgon, the leader of Havering Council, congratulated the nominees and winnersRay Morgon, the leader of Havering Council, congratulated the nominees and winners (Image: Havering Council)

Full list of Havering Small Business Award winners

1. Best Small or Independent Business: Best Sellers, Hornchurch

 

2. Best Hospitality: Ped’s Pizza, Romford

Romford Recorder: Ped's Pizza in Romford won Best Takeway and Best Hospitality Business awardsPed's Pizza in Romford won Best Takeway and Best Hospitality Business awards (Image: Riddhi Kachhela)

3. The Best Beauty or Service Business: The Beauty Room, Gidea Park

 

4. Best Customer Service: Bear with the Hair, Hornchurch

Romford Recorder: Bear with the Hair in Hornchurch received Best Customer Service awardBear with the Hair in Hornchurch received Best Customer Service award (Image: Riddhi Kachhela)5. Best Tradesperson: ADL Air Conditioning

6. Best Newcomer: The Bubbly Bar

Romford Recorder: The Bubbly Bar was named as Best Newcomer at the awardsThe Bubbly Bar was named as Best Newcomer at the awards (Image: Riddhi Kachhela)7. Best Social Enterprise or CIC: The Baby Bank HQ

 

8. Best Shopfront: Best Sellers, Hornchurch

Romford Recorder: The Baby Bank HQ collected their award for Best Social enterprise second time in a rowThe Baby Bank HQ collected their award for Best Social enterprise second time in a row (Image: Riddhi Kachhela)

9. Best Takeaway: Ped’s Pizza, Romford

10. Havering Small Business of the Year: Best Sellers, Hornchurch