COMPANIES across the north of the county have been praised once again in the annual Cherwell Business Awards.

Business leaders and local entrepreneurs in Cherwell were recognised for their hard work and commitment at the event's seventh annual ceremony on Friday, May 11.

Winners of this year's awards included a knitwear company, accountancy firm and a charity which supports adults with learning difficulties.

Cherwell District Council lead member for estates and the economy Lynn Pratt said: "I was delighted to represent the council, who was the headline sponsor at this year’s Business Awards.

"It was encouraging and deeply rewarding to meet such innovative businesses across a broad spectrum of businesses working across North Oxfordshire."

In total, 24 finalists were commended for their contributions to the local economy in front of 250 at the awards held at Heythrop Park.

Out of the 24 finalists the top title was awarded to Overall Cherwell Winner 2018, sponsored by Norbar Torque Tools, was accountants Whitley Stimpson.

Managing director Jonathan Walton said: "Our head office has been based in Cherwell for over 87 years and we are delighted to have won both the Established Business and Overall Cherwell Winner awards which is testament to the success of our excellent team of professionals and support staff who provide outstanding levels of service to our clients."

Other winners included Ethos Technology for New Business Award, Blue Planet IT for the Innovation Award, EYA Design for Micro Business Award, the Charity and Community Award for Second Time Around and High Spec Composites for Small Business Award.

Distinct Estate Agents Sarka Sara Wilde took home the title of Business Person of the Year and Scott MacDonald of Sandy Leaf Farm won Young Business Person of the Year Award.

The event raised more than £1,600 for charity Second Time Around.