I’m excited to reveal that later this evening (Thursday), I will be attending the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Business Awards at Tobacco Dock, London, accompanied by eight local businesses from across the two counties.

Now in their 16th year, the awards are a highlight of the business calendar, recognising the key role that local businesses play in driving the UK economy.

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is a finalist in three categories in the prestigious national awards, competing for Chamber of the Year, Excellence in Membership Services and Excellence in International Trade.

The shortlisting follows a successful year for H&W Chamber, as we continue to support a growing number of companies across the counties, work closely with local organisations to guide businesses in the countdown to Brexit and the continued acknowledgement from accreditations like the Investors in People.

I am pleased that we have been recognised out of 53 accredited Chambers across the UK for the investment in our membership, the support we provide to our 1,500 Members and the dedication to improving our overall employee satisfaction.

We are thrilled to be joined by arrangeMY, Bishop Fleming, DRPG, Environmental Management Solutions, Indra Renewable Technologies, Level Peaks Associates, Malvern Panalytical and OLPRO who will be representing the area in eight out of nine categories in this year’s nationwide awards. Each of the finalists have been commended for their hard work in the last 12 months alone, highlighting why the area remains a great place to live and do business.

On behalf of Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, I would like to wish good luck to all eight firms and look forward to hearing the results of the awards ceremony later today. To find out the results live, make sure you are following us on Twitter @HW_Chamber where we will be sharing the good news throughout the evening.