Hunt is on for the best in business

Now in its fifth year, the awards will see firms and organisations from across the area go head-to-head in 15 categories at a black-tie event later this year.

Last year’s overall winner was Motorhome Depot, based at Mansfield’s i-centre.

Speaking about the award, Director Natalie Wood said: “We were chuffed to bits when we won, we’ve worked so hard for a long time so it is nice to get some recognition, we were absolutely shocked when we realised we had won - especially business of the year.”

This year’s awards judge and sponsor, Richard Darby, of hairdressers Mark Leeson Hair Body and Mind, says the accolade is a great way to lift a firm’s profile.

He said: “We are a big supporter of our local paper and believe Mansfield has a significant amount of talent and thriving businesses that deserve recognition.

“Winning awards is a great way of building your business and showing the world what you are capable of. It is also a brilliant motivator for the team and demonstrates to them that you are serious.

“I would urge local businesses to get involved. It is well worth a little bit of time and effort.”

Award-winning hairdresser Mark Leeson, Richard’s co-director at the salon, has had his work featured in magazines all around the world and last year was presented with the Chad Business Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.

Categories for the 2013 awards include Customer Service Award, Community Contribution, Lifetime Achievement, Team of the Year, Business Idea of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Retailer of the Year, Young Businessperson of the Year, Business Personality of the Year, New Business of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Most Innovative Property, Environmental Award and Disability Inclusion.