'A real momentum for growth': Skegness Business Awards celebrate hopes of ‘stronger future’

This annual black-tie event, organised by the Skegness area Business Chamber at the North Shore Hotel, is always a highlight in the local calendar, showcasing the variety of local businesses that continue to thrive ‘in spite of the challenges of rising costs’.

Ahead of the presentations, guests – including the Mayor of Skegness, Coun Jimmy Brookes and the leader of East Lindsey District Council Coun Craig Leyland – enjoyed a welcome drinks reception, followed by a three-course meal with entertainment.

Chair of the Chamber Paul McCooey said he was delighted with the “strong number of entrants”, especially for the new category.

“Despite the ongoing challenges of rising costs and a difficult trading environment, the business community in Skegness continues to show resilience, dedication, and passion,” he said.

"The strong number of entrants in the new business category demonstrates the ambition and ingenuity that drive our local economy.

“Skegness Business Awards celebrate excellence across food and drink, accommodation, events, health and wellbeing, customer service, innovation, and community impact, while also recognising lifetime achievement.

"With an eye to the future we also have a chance to recognise those involved with learning and development and my favourite award where we recognise learning achievers.

"Together, these businesses are the backbone of our town – creating jobs, supporting families, and strengthening our community.

“With positive developments such as Skegness College expanding to welcome 40% more students and £20 million of Government funding through Pride in Place set to be invested over the next decade, there is real momentum for growth.

"This investment, alongside the determination of our business community, will help secure a stronger future for Skegness.”

Amongst the winners, it was a return for Fantasy Island, whose hard-working team was nominated in the Community Service category after winning the Visitor Attraction or Event of the Year award last year.

Paige Harris-Scott, Strategic Brand and Partnerships Manager of Mellors Group, who own Fantasy Island, said: “Being recognised as Visitor Attraction of the Year in the 2024 Skegness Business Awards was a proud moment for everyone at Fantasy Island.

"To be nominated again this year is a fantastic acknowledgement of our team’s passion, hard work, and commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences and memories that’ll last a lifetime.”

This year’s winners are (sponsor in brackets) :

Best Accommodation – Bond Holidays (Dexter & Sharpe)

Best Makers – Unique Car Mats (UK) Ltd (People First Mobility)

Best New Business – Awesome Walrus Ltd (First College)

Community – Beach Ability, Lincolnshire (The Royal Hotel)

Customer Service – Fantasy Island (Stagecoach)

Food and Drink – Dough Girl (Fix Auto)

Health and Wellbeing – Phoenix Fitness

Learning Achiever – Debbie Pries (Micronclean)

Learning and Development – InspireU (Magna Vitae Trust for Leisure & Culture)

New Initiative – Halt & Heal (Fantasy Island)

Visitor Attraction or Event of the Year – Skegness Reggae & Ska Festival (Orchid Events)

Lifetime Achiever – Stuart Bateman (Skegness Area Business Chamber)