BedfordBID stepped up to make sure town centre businesses were fully represented in the new Bedfordshire on Sunday Business Awards - by sponsoring a special category.

The three finalists in the Town Centre Business Awards were: Michael R. Peters who are celebrating 50 years in business in 2016, Arcadia Sweetshop which has been serving customers for more than 100 years and the new kid on the block George James Bridal which has expanded to larger premises on Bromham Road within 12 months of opening to meet huge demand.

The winner was Arcadia who were presented with their award by Christina Rowe Director of BedfordBID.

Said Christina: “We were impressed with the quality of the organisation, the calibre of entries from across the county and the evening event was a great showcase for Bedford businesses. 

“We believe sponsoring the award represented good value for money to celebrate town centre businesses and for BID levy payers - some of whom went on to win other categories.”

Michael R. Peters won the Jayne Beard Heart of the Community Award for five decades of providing outstanding customer service and support to local folk.

Big BID supporters Bedford College saw one of its top tutors Ruth Tippell win the Employee of the Year. Runners up included Francesca Castagnaro of Mayfair Insurance.

Osborne Appointments of Lurke Street were short listed in the Large Business of the Year category.

The Pad Presents was among the runners-up in the  Business Innovation Award for bringing people into town for events.