Cllr Chitty went on to outline the part played by the council's own Partners for Growth funding scheme which has assisted small firms to expand adding: "the scheme has been hugely successful and now is the time to expand the investment partnership to include other organisations such as the Universities and private companies."
Following a film montage of all 12 finalists made by University College for the Creative Arts, host Barbara Sturgeon, invited them on to the stage to receive certificates presented by representatives of this year's sponsors. Five winners shared the £5000 prize fund and received trophies designed and made by local sculptures' Paula Groves and Wendy Daws.
Top company, receiving the winner's trophy and £2000, was Puretone Ltd based on Medway City Estate. Founded in 1970 by Jay Choudhry OBE, the company manufactures hearing aids and audio products such as the earpieces used by pop stars including Madonna. Puretone now has 49 employees and exports to 65 countries worldwide.
Other prizes included :-
Runners Up - Homeco, High Street, Chatham, winning £1000
Start up Business of the Year - Lollypop, High Street, Chatham, winning £750
Contribution to Medway - BSL Gas Technologies Ltd, Laker Road, Rochester, winning £500
Innovation - Bedfont Scientific, Laker Road, Rochester, winning £500
The following businesses received finalists' certificates:-
A + A Training, Medway City Estate
Adventure Café, Rochester High Street
OHD Owen Hair Design, Rainham
Haywards Cars Direct, Chatham
Lifeline Alarms & Security Services, Lordswood
Medway Safety, Chatham
Tube Fashion, Gillingham
The Awards 2007 finalists celebrate a
successful evening at Dickens World
Winning company Puretone Ltd -
Jay Choudhry OBE and
his son Baz Choudhry
