Attended by an audience of 180, made up of shortlisted businesses, partner organisations and sponsors and hosted by BID Board Director Jane Tunnicliff Group Head of Employer Engagement and Training at NSCG Newcastle-under-Lyme College – winners across 15 awards categories were announced. 

The evening allowed for attendees to network and connect with like-minded individuals in the area. This networking aspect of the event has created new collaborations with businesses and friendships that will strengthen Newcastle under Lyme’s community. 

It also gave opportunity for Newcastle-under-Lyme BID team to reflect on current and future focuses as well as encourage engagement from the wider community to help shape plans for the coming year.  

Jane Tunnicliff a member of the Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District, said: “I was delighted to be able to host the first Love NUL Awards at the Performing Arts Centre and was a great opportunity to welcome and shine a light on all of the amazing businesses we have in the local area.” 

Businesses honoured included Family Bakery Café (New Business of the Year Award), New Vic Theatre (Visitor Attraction of the Year Award) and Caffe Java (Small Retailer of the Year Award).  

Charlotte Pearce, BID manager, said: “We’re thrilled to unveil the deserving winners of the very first LoveNUL Business award. It’s heartwarming to see a mix of well-known local businesses as well as fresh faces and hidden gems amongst the victors. This celebration isn’t just about honoring the winners; it’s a tribute to everyone who was nominated and shown how the community – the shoppers, diners and residents of the town truly value their local business.  As a BID, the team couldn’t be prouder to shine a light on their remarkable contributions.” 

In attendance were also headline sponsors Keele University who presented details of their new Digital Society to be situated on the Ironmarket as well as representatives from award sponsors; Panda Press, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, New Vic Theatre and McDonalds. 

The Winners were: 

Beauty & Personal Care 

Toni & Guy 

Cafe of the Year 

Piccoloco 

Independent Business of the Year 

Anasma Greek Bakery 

Large Retailer of the Year 

Vue 

Market Trader of the Year 

Cheeky Cheesecakes 

New Business of the Year 

Family Bakery Cafe 

Professional Services Award 

Thompson Wright Limited 

Pub of the Year 

Cappello Lounge 

Service with a Smile Award 

Toni & Guy 

Small Retailer of the Year 

Caffe Java 

Restaurant of the Year Award 

Anasma Greek Bakery 

Visitor Attraction of the Year 

New Vic Theatre 

LoveNUL Community Champion 

Alice Charity 

LoveNUL Sustainability Champion 

John Pass Jewellers 

LoveNUL Rising Star Award 

Shannon Playhouse 

For more information please visit www.lovenulawards.co.uk or visit @newcastlebid on social media.