MORE than 75 people packed into the mayor’s parlour at Bitton House, Teignmouth, to hear the results of the inaugural local business awards.

The competition was a great success.

It was the idea of the mayor, Cllr Paul Burgess, who said: ‘We had more than 2,500 votes from members of the public, and Adele Hearne and Luke Stewart of the Blue Anchor pub are very worthy winners of the main business of the year award. They go above and beyond to host fantastic events for all, including families with children.

‘Their beer festivals alone bring cheer and business to the town and the Christmas party, including real reindeer, for families is something no other public house provides. An amazing business.

‘Big thanks must also go to the sponsors, David Rudall and all at Greenwoods Accountancy, and the 62 businesses who entered – and all the people who took the time to vote.

‘We have some fantastic local businesses, all of whom received excellent comments from their customers.

‘I would urge residents to support local business, especially for Christmas shopping.’

Other winners:

Out of Town Business of the Year – Ashleigh Way Post Office and Stores, Alison and Andrew Clarke; runner-up – Doorstuff, Helen Butland.

Café of the Year – The Jolly Good Fish Cafe, Karen and John Pearce; runner-up – Finley Browns, Faye and Martin Stokes-Tallon.

Best Newcomer of the Year – Fanny Bushels, Simone Tomlinson.

Hospitality Business of the Year – The Blue Anchor, Adele and Luke; runner-up – Chinos Restaurant, Eleni Cottrell.

Professional Services Business of the Year – Travel Counsellors, Helen Birtwistle; runner-up Alice Cross Centre, Julia Street.

Non Food Shop Business of the Year – Envy Hair Advice Centre, Judith Rose; runner-up – Face Electrical, Craig Maggs.

Top Customer Service Award – Teign Music, Philip Fray.