King’s Award for Enterprise explained at networking event

The breakfast, held in the Old Library at Taunton School on August 7, included a talk given by Nigel Beacom, Somerset's deputy lieutenant.

From left: Ryan Denslow of Towergate Insurance, Peter Quintana of HGKC, and David Baum of Begbies Traynor (Image: Supplied)

He was representing the lord-lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, who is the King's personal representative in the county.

Mr Beacom explained that the lord-lieutenant and their deputies promote charitable organisations and support businesses and communities, in addition to their royal duties.

James Wade of Accounts Projects and Jane Finch of Time for Inclusion (Image: Supplied)

Mr Beacom said: "Somerset is full of exciting and innovative businesses, and The King’s Award for Enterprise is a great way of celebrating their success.

"Whether a small business with a great innovative product or service, or a larger company running an impressive social mobility programme, this award is a prestigious way to recognise your contribution to enterprise."

Julie Grant (left) of Blueloop Ltd with Lorraine Balcombe and Matthew Chandler of Albert Goodman (Image: Supplied)

Past winners of the award include Somerset Chamber of Commerce members, Leonardo and Atlantas Marine, of Yeovil, as well as Frome's Kaiasm.

Positive media coverage, and access to new markets, were noted as two benefits of winning an award.

Wellington HR with Daniel Hart (centre) of Willmotts Transport Ltd and Max Patch of Love Musgrove" style="width: 100%;"> Shelley Poole of Wellington HR with Daniel Hart (centre) of Willmotts Transport Ltd and Max Patch of Love Musgrove (Image: Supplied)

Mr Beacom said: "It is a great boost to staff morale, and the use of the royal seal of approval helps businesses get noticed above and beyond the competition."

The breakfast, organised by Somerset Chamber of Commerce, was attended by around 30 representatives from businesses in the region, who were able to network while enjoying either a cooked or continental breakfast.

Deputy lieutenant of Somerset, Nigel Beacom, explains more about the lieutenancy (Image: Supplied)

Emma Warren, chair of Somerset Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors, said: "We have so many great businesses in Somerset and this really is an opportunity to be put on a global map as an exemplar in your field.

"There is also the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, which is given to voluntary groups for life to honour their impact on local communities and their volunteers."

Established in 1994, Somerset Chamber of Commerce has a 500-strong network of member businesses covering all industry sectors from sole traders to multi-national corporations.

Combined with local Town Chambers, the Somerset Chamber represents more than 2,000 businesses across Somerset.

The Chamber organises more than 60 events each year to inform businesses, provide networking opportunities, and strengthen supply chains.

It is one of only 53 Chambers accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce, which represents over 100,000 businesses in the UK.

Applications for this year's King’s Awards for Enterprise close on September 12 at 1pm.

Details are available at www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise.