Isle Of Wight Radio Celebrates Best In Business At Glittering Country Themed Awards Night

The very best of the Isle of Wight’s business community was celebrated last Friday night (April 24) as the Isle of Wight Radio Best in Business Awards returned in style at The Sugar Store in Cowes.

Hosted by Isle of Wight Radio breakfast show presenters Paul Topping and Heather McCallum, the evening embraced a fun country and western theme while recognising excellence, resilience and innovation across the Island.

With a record number of nominations received this year, organisers say simply making the shortlist was a huge achievement, highlighting the strength and depth of local businesses.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of a wide range of supporters, including headline sponsor Red Squirrel, alongside category sponsors who helped shine a spotlight on outstanding organisations and individuals.

Independent Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Reno Drain)

Winner: D & S Carpets

This category celebrated the backbone of the Island’s high streets.

Island Foods, Bayliss & Booth and D & S Carpets were shortlisted for their commitment to quality and service, with D & S Carpets taking home the award after 15 years of building a trusted reputation.

Charity of the Year (sponsored by Dough Baby)

Winner: Daisy Chains

This award recognised organisations making a real difference in people’s lives.

Daisy Chains, The Wight Brainy Bunch and Track a Dog were all praised for their compassion and impact, with Daisy Chains announced as the winner for its vital support to families facing medical challenges.

Tourist Attraction of the Year (sponsored by Beacon Magazine)

Winner: Robin Hill

Tourist Attraction of the Year highlighted the destinations that keep visitors returning to the Island.

Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Robin Hill and The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary were nominated, with Robin Hill securing the award following its impressive revival and renewed visitor experience.

New Business of the Year (sponsored by D & S Carpets)

Winner: The Point Bembridge

This award celebrated entrepreneurial spirit and ambition.

Crystal Clear Ear Wax Removal, The Point Bembridge and Charlie’s Detailing were shortlisted, with winners The Point Bembridge recognised for bringing a fresh and vibrant coastal offering to the Island.

Best Family Business (sponsored by Hartford Care)

Winner: Luccombe Hall Hotel

This category showcased the strength of family-run enterprises.

Lagom, Luccombe Hall Hotel and The Imaginarium were all recognised, with Luccombe Hall Hotel taking the title for its long-standing legacy and continued evolution.

Best Island Produce (sponsored by Hillbans)

Winner: Godshill Orchards

This award focused on locally sourced food and drink.

Nunwell Farm Kitchen and Godshill Orchards were shortlisted, with Godshill Orchards named the winner for its high-quality, locally grown produce.

Top Event of the Year (sponsored by Red Funnel)

Winner: Classic Isle

This accolade celebrated the events that bring the Island together.

Classic Isle, Ventnor Fringe and the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival were all nominated, with Classic Isle winning for its blend of world-class music and charitable impact.

Contribution to the Community (sponsored by Glanvilles Damant)

Winner: Care in the Garden

This category recognised those going above and beyond.

Care in the Garden, Right at Home and Better Days Café were shortlisted, with Care in the Garden taking the award for its empowering work supporting people with additional needs.

Employee of the Year (sponsored by WP Recruitment)

Winner: Natalie Dexter (Capital Jewellers)

This award honoured individuals making a real difference in the workplace.

Olivia Williams, Kirsty Smith and Natalie Dexter were nominated, with Natalie Dexter of Capital Jewellers winning for her outstanding work ethic, dedication and commitment to both customers and colleagues.

Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by HTP Apprenticeship College)

Winner: Amy Eggleton

The Apprentice of the Year award highlighted rising talent.

Amy Eggleton, Laura Swallow and Adam Shotter were shortlisted, with Amy Eggleton winning after progressing impressively within Goulding’s Care.

Four public vote categories also saw strong engagement from the community, with thousands of votes cast.

Capital Jewellers won the Customer Service Award, The White Horse in Whitwell was named Best Roast, RBS Autos took Tradesperson of the Year, and The Three Bishops in Brighstone was crowned Pub of the Year.

Overall Business of the Year (sponsored by Red Squirrel)

Winner: Wildheart Animal Sanctuary

The evening concluded with the Overall Business of the Year award, presented by headline sponsor Red Squirrel.

This prestigious honour was awarded to Wildheart Animal Sanctuary.

Celebrating 50 years, the sanctuary has grown from a small zoo into a leading centre for animal rescue, rehabilitation and conservation.

Its work rescuing animals from across the globe, combined with its commitment to education and community engagement, made it a standout winner among an exceptionally strong field.

Speaking after the event, Isle of Wight Radio Managing Director, Claire John, said:

“Every year the Isle of Wight Radio Best in Business Awards grows in scale and quality, and 2026 has been no exception.

“The standard of nominations was exceptionally high, and being shortlisted alone is a huge achievement for any business given the level of competition across every category.

“This year’s event at The fabulous Sugar Store in Cowes was a fantastic celebration of Island business, made even more memorable with its country and western theme!

“I’d like to thank our headline sponsor Red Squirrel, along with all our category sponsors, for their continued support.

“Congratulations to all of our winners, and especially Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, our Overall Business of the Year, for an outstanding achievement.”