The search has begun for Epsom’s best businesses following the launch of the borough’s annual awards on Thursday.

Bike Beans Cycle Cafe, in Rectory Lane, Ashtead, hosted a launch breakfast for the Epsom and Ewell Business Excellence Awards 2013, attended by MP Chris Grayling and a host of business leaders.

The cafe was crowned best new business at last year’s awards, and Mr Grayling, who thanked sponsors and media partner the Epsom Guardian, said they have already "made a real difference to the profile of businesses locally".

He urged people to take the opportunity to give businesses, individuals and charities in the area a boost, and said categories specifically recognising business excellence in different locations across Epsom and Ewell had been added to this year’s awards "to build up community involvement".

Andrew Robertson, business manager at sponsor Ashtead Hospital, said: "At a time of difficulties for businesses, getting involved with the business awards would be a great experience for them. 

"They raise awareness of businesses in a professional way and I’m sure people who have been involved in the awards in past years have benefited from it."

Thomas Roselle, manager of corporate social responsibility and environment at Toyota, which has its UK headquarters based in Epsom, said: "It’s always good to celebrate good local businesses, big and small. 

"We want the community to be successful and this is one way of doing that."

Finalists will be invited to a drinks reception on November, to be hosted by Epsom’s University for the Creative Arts (UCA), where the winners will be announced.

Nominating a company or individual for an award is quick and easy. Simply go to www.epsombusinessawards.co.uk and click on How to Enter by September 30.


The categories are:

Best New Business (trading for less than a year) - sponsored by the Best and Epsom and Ewell

Best Business in Epsom and Epsom Downs - sponsored by The Ashley Centre

Best Business in Ewell and Stoneleigh - sponsored by Vox Pops International

Best Business in Ashtead - sponsored by Ashtead Hospital

Best Business Personality - sponsored by Toyota GB

Best Creative Business - sponsored by the University for the Creative Arts

Best Young Entrepreneur - sponsored by National Counties

Best for Commitment to the Community - sponsored by TWM Solicitors

Best Restaurant or Pub - sponsored by 143 Canopy

Best Overall Business - sponsored by Epsom Guardian