THE best that Rhyl has to offer was celebrated at the third annual Rhyl BID Business Awards at 1891 Bar and Restaurant last night (March 5).

A total of 15 awards were handed out to highlight the businesses and individuals striving to help Rhyl shine, and raising awareness of what the town has to offer.

More than 150 people attended last night’s ceremony, including business representatives from the finalists, their guests, dignitaries and partnering organisations.

Rhyl Journal: MIND Charity Shop collects its People Development AwardMIND Charity Shop collects its People Development Award (Image: Rhyl BID)

READ MORE:

RECAP: Rhyl BID Business Awards 2024

Abby Pilling, Rhyl BID manager, highlighted the encouraging participation which is seen across the town that is continuing to work together.

She said: “Congratulations to all the winners, and to each of our finalists, as you all represent the best of Rhyl. 

“Your contributions to our community are vital, and clearly valued by the public, especially through the continuing economic challenges. 

Rhyl Journal: Janine Roberts of Neens Butties & Bakes collects her new business awardJanine Roberts of Neens Butties & Bakes collects her new business award (Image: Rhyl BID)

“This has been made clear by the number of public votes that were received – over 11,000 people have cast over 50,000 votes across all the categories this year, more than double that of last year, which is a testament to the business’ dedication to their customers and the town. 

“We would also like to extend our thanks to mayor of Rhyl, Cllr Jacquie McAlpine, for supporting the event with her opening welcome, along with many other dignitaries who we were pleased to have join us for these celebrations.”

Cllr McAlpine, who opened the ceremony, said: “It was a privilege to be invited and have the opportunity to attend Rhyl BID Annual Business Awards to personally congratulate and acknowledge those working in the business sector who make a fundamental contribution to the economic prosperity of our town.

“The evening was a huge success, and I extend my appreciation to Rhyl BID for their time and effort hosting such a fantastic evening.”

During the evening, there were cheers of applause when Denmore Premier Food Store won the business longevity award. 

Rhyl Journal: Denmore Premier Food Store collects its business longevity awardDenmore Premier Food Store collects its business longevity award (Image: Rhyl BID)

This is the business’ 39th year, and it has been actively involved with the Rhyl community for all of that time. 

Angela Sykes, of Denmore Premier Food Store, said: “We are honoured to have won the business longevity award, and have loved serving the Rhyl community since 1985, and would like to thank everyone who voted on our behalf.

“We extend our congratulations to all the finalists in this category; a wonderful group, all of whom deserve accolades for their long-standing commitment and contributions to Rhyl.”

The evening also saw the outstanding contribution to the community and Rhyl superhero awards presented to Richard Kendrick (Bearjamin the Fundraising Bear) for his continued fundraising.

Rhyl Journal: Richard Kendrick collects one of his two awardsRichard Kendrick collects one of his two awards (Image: Rhyl BID)

Richard said: “I'd like to say thank you to everyone who voted for Bearjamin.  I feel honoured to have won two awards last night. There were so many great groups and people in our categories.”

The Rhyl BID business of the year award was presented Rhyl Tourist Information Centre, meanwhile.

Toni Vitti, of Rhyl Tourist Information Centre, said: “We were extremely honoured to receive this award, especially as it recognises the work we do to support businesses in the town, not just those who are tourism-related.

“The evening was a fantastic celebration of some of the people who make this town such a brilliant place to work, live and visit.

Rhyl Journal: Rhyl Tourist Information Centre collects its business of the year awardRhyl Tourist Information Centre collects its business of the year award (Image: Rhyl BID)

“Rhyl BID's organisation of the evening was flawless, and 1891's hospitality was as wonderful as ever.”

Rhyl BID is to discontinue at the end of March after its board members opted not to ballot for another five-year term.

Rhyl BID Business Awards 2024 Winners

Corporate Social Responsibility Award

Winner - Tracey Jaycock, Morrisons Community Champion

Runner-up - Rhyl Wings Projects

Rhyl Journal: Tracey Jaycock collects her Corporate Social Responsibility AwardTracey Jaycock collects her Corporate Social Responsibility Award (Image: Rhyl BID)

Technology & Innovation Award

Winner – A&J Taxis

Runner-Up – Plastic Crack Collectables

Rhyl Journal: A&J Taxis wins the Technology & Innovation AwardA&J Taxis wins the Technology & Innovation Award (Image: Newsquest)

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Award

Winner – Use Your Loaf

Runner-Up – Rhyl Wings Projects

Rhyl Journal: Alex Bowen of Use Your Loaf collects the charity/social enterprise awardAlex Bowen of Use Your Loaf collects the charity/social enterprise award (Image: Rhyl BID)

Excellence in Sustainability Award

Winner – Morris Funeral Directors

Runner-Up – A&J Taxis

Rhyl Journal: Morris Funeral Directors wins the excellence in sustainability awardMorris Funeral Directors wins the excellence in sustainability award (Image: Rhyl BID)

Marketing & Communications Award

Winner – Phoenix Security North Wales

Runner-Up – Rhyl Little Theatre

Rhyl Journal: Phoenix Security North Wales wins the marketing and communications awardPhoenix Security North Wales wins the marketing and communications award (Image: Rhyl BID)

Customer Excellence Award

Winner – Elwy

Runner-Up – Phoenix Security North Wales

Rhyl Journal: Elwy wins the customer excellence awardElwy wins the customer excellence award (Image: Rhyl BID)

Outstanding Employee / Personal Achievement Award

Winner – Heather Moulding (Slaters Podiatry)

Runner-Up – Denmore Premier Food Store

Rhyl Journal: Slaters Podiatry / Heather Moulding wins the Outstanding Employee / Personal Achievement AwardSlaters Podiatry / Heather Moulding wins the Outstanding Employee / Personal Achievement Award (Image: Rhyl BID)

Charity / Social Enterprise Award

Winner – Use Your Loaf

Runner-Up – Blossom & Bloom

Best Place to Work / Employer of the Year Award

Winner – The Bodfor

Runner-Up - The Piazza Restaurant

Rhyl Journal: The Bodfor wins Best Place to Work / Employer of the Year AwardThe Bodfor wins Best Place to Work / Employer of the Year Award (Image: Rhyl BID)

People Development Award

Winner – Mind Charity Shop

Runner-Up – Rhyl Wings Projects

Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award

Winner – Richard Kendrick – Bearjamin the Fundraising Bear

Runner-Up – Use Your Loaf

New Business Award

Winner – Neens Butties & Bakes

Runner-Up – Slaters Podiatry

Business Longevity Award

Winner – Denmore Premier Food Store

Runner-Up – Rhyl Miniature Railway

Rhyl Superhero Award

Winner – Richard Kendrick – Bearjamin the Fundraising Bear

Runner – Up – Blossom & Bloom