Torbay Business Awards 2025 winners announced

The Torbay Weekly Naturally Inspiring Business Awards 2025 have come and gone — and what a spectacular evening it proved to be.

The Riviera International Centre in Torquay was transformed into a glittering hub of celebration, as nearly 350 people gathered for the biggest awards night yet.

Rowcroft Hospice raised £1,820 through a raffle, while Ocean BMW Torbay provided a fleet of cars to decorate the entrance. Guests were welcomed with a drinks reception sponsored by Bays Brewery, and the venue was beautifully styled by Confetti Events.

There was also a special appearance by Cockington’s beloved mayor – Patrick the Pony.

Jim Parker, editor of the Torbay Weekly, said: “When we launched these awards three years ago, I must admit I was a bit nervous that we had bitten off more than we could chew. But Torbay decided to come out and celebrate. One hundred and eighty people attended the gala finals and you could feel and see the emotion in the room. Now, you can see just how much these awards have grown and what they mean to people. I sincerely thank you for making that happen.”

Here is a rundown of the winners, who were hosted by radio legend and former BBC presenter, David Fitzgerald:

Best Marketing Initiative (sponsored by Newton Abbot Racecourse, presented by John Baker): Treat Marketing for SUP Hub.

The SUP Hub marketing initiative positions Torbay and the English Riviera as the paddleboarding capital of the UK. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, it encourages businesses to become SUP-friendly and connects visitors with everything they need for an exceptional paddleboarding experience, from events and live updates to safety advice.

Lyn Spindley, director of Treat Marketing, said: “We are so pleased and humbled to win the award for Best Marketing Initiative for SUP Hub. We are on a mission to make the English Riviera the paddleboarding capital of the UK. Everyone is invited to take part and benefit from the new paddleboarding economy and culture in Torbay.”

Greener Futures Award (sponsored by Stagecoach, presented by Paul Gawne): Wollens Solicitors.

As a certified carbon-neutral business, Wollens Solicitors sees sustainability as fundamental to its long-term success and community responsibility. Since 2019, the firm has reduced its carbon footprint by 51 per cent, consolidated offices for greater efficiency, shifted to green energy, and significantly cut paper use and commuting emissions. 

A member of the team said: “Super proud to be awarded the Greener Futures Award this evening at the Torbay Business Awards 2025. That’s 3 sustainability awards for us in quick succession! 

“A recognition of the great work that we are doing lead by Clive Meredith and working with Carbon Neutral Britain.”

Sport, Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year (sponsored by Torquay United, presented by Michael Westcott, Neil Warnock and Mark Bowes-Cavanagh: Great Parks Community Association.

Great Parks has transformed an estate once known for anti-social behaviour through fully funded sports and wellbeing activities. With grant funding and partnerships, it brings in expert facilitators to deliver a wide range of sessions — from team sports and yoga to diabetes clinics, mental health support, and youth clubs.

A team member said: "An amazing night. The whole of QED can be proud. Let's be proud of our community."

Rising Star Award (sponsored by The Princess Theatre, presented by Annie Masson): Sophia Martin, QLM.

Sophia Martin has rapidly progressed from technician to lead product engineer on QLM’s flagship QGL Methane LiDAR. With no prior experience in photonics, she has shown outstanding initiative, mastering complex systems through curiosity and a drive to learn.

QLM said: “A massive congratulations to our very own Sophia Martin for winning the Rising Star award at Torbay Business Awards. So very well deserved and what a fantastic talent. We're so proud she's part of our team and is achieving so much.”

Small Business of the Year (sponsored by Torbay Business Forum, presented by Steve Reynolds): ACM Garage.

Since relocating to Torquay five years ago, ACM Garage has grown into a trusted, family-run business with 12 staff and a focus on excellence and community. Built from scratch while raising three children, the business has created jobs, trained apprentices, and supported schools by maintaining minibuses.

The team said: “Well, we didn't expect that! Torbay Small Business of the Year Award! Thank you, everyone, for all your custom.”

Commissioner's Business Community Champion (sponsored by the Office of the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner, presented by Alison Hernandez): Unleashed Theatre.

Unleashed Theatre Company took home the Commissioner's Business Community Champion award. Unleashed has spent over 20 years at the heart of Torbay’s community, using theatre to support people affected by homelessness, addiction, mental illness and exclusion. By saving and repurposing the Central Cinema, it has created a vital, community-owned space for creativity, recovery and hope.

Paul Martin, Unleashed Theatre's Finance and Operations Manager, said: "With so many deserving organisations across The Bay, it really is honour to receive this award. Every one involved with Unleashed dedicates so much of their time to help others so this, and any form of recognition is incredibly special."

Tourism Business of the Year (sponsored by the English Riviera BID Company, presented by Carolyn Custerson): Splashdown Quaywest.

The UK’s largest outdoor waterpark took home Tourism Business of the Year. The recent launch of "Shipwreck Island" — a new area for under-12s named in tribute to the park’s original 1988 branding — has expanded its appeal to younger families, contributing to a record-breaking summer season.

Local accommodation providers report that many guests now cite Splashdown as the main reason for visiting the English Riviera.

Jon Lees, general manager of Splashdown, said: “So proud of everyone at Splashdown Quaywest winning tourism business of the year at the Torbay Business Awards. It is a real achievement and a real team effort. 

“Excited for the future of tourism in Torbay and glad to represent the waterpark industry.”

Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Inter-Line, presented by Scott Thomas and Steve Vincent): Floss, Kudos Hair.

Felicity (Floss) was awarded Apprentice of the Year for showing exceptional dedication, creativity and technical skill. She built a client base before qualifying and is a true all-rounder who eagerly gets involved in extra curriculars. She thanked her team at Kudos for all of their support. 

Innovation Award (sponsored and presented by Sally Allen): Rowcroft Hospice and QLM.

Before announcing the award, Sally Allen highlighted the potential closure of the cardiac unit at Torbay Hospital and its planned move to the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, encouraging the audience to sign petitions and support the unit.

Two winners shared the 2025 Innovation Award, highlighting the strength of their entries.

Rowcroft was recognised for its pioneering "Grow Our Own" initiative, which sponsors local student nurses through university with guaranteed jobs upon qualification.

QLM was honoured for its technology tackling methane emissions — one of the most urgent climate challenges. Its quantum LiDAR cameras detect, image, and measure methane with precision in all conditions from over 200 metres away.

QLM said: “What a great result for our team. We shared the Innovation category with Rowcroft Hospice, our charity partner in Torbay, which does such amazing work. Massive thanks to the whole QLM Technology team who innovate every day.”

Best New Business (sponsored by Wollens, presented by Chris Hart): That Crafty Stitch.

That Crafty Stitch opened in 2024 to bring creativity, wellbeing and community to Torquay through modern crafting. It offers a welcoming space for all skill levels with kits, workshops and events like the new Craft Collective. 

Founder Sam Webber said: “There’s still part of me that can’t quite comprehend this thing I’ve built. Something magical that came from a love of creativity is now an everyday dream. Building my business literally saved my mental health, and I now get to support other people with theirs through knitting, crochet and this colourful space I’ve created in the heart of Torquay. Being recognised last night was such a surreal moment. Thank you all so much for the support and the hundreds of congratulatory messages. I can’t wait to see what happens next.”

Inspiring Employer of the Year (sponsored by South Devon College, presented by Laurence Frewin): Rockfish.

Inspiring Employer of the Year was awarded to Mitch Tonks’ Rockfish seafood restaurant. Mitch’s acceptance speech was played on the big screen while Rockfish employees Andree Vacchelli and Kirk Gosden collected the award. Recognised as one of the UK’s Top 50 Best Companies to Work For, Rockfish is praised for creating a happy and supportive workplace.

Mitch said: “I’m really sorry I can’t be within you in person this evening - I wish I was in that room with you all now. 

“It really is a fantastic honour to be given an award like this, especially in Torbay where there are so many brilliant and inspiring businesses. I can tell you that everybody at Rockfish will be celebrating and rejoicing. Our teams work really hard to make the workplace a great place. We know that without great people, you can’t do anything. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

James Wright Award for Inspirational Leadership (sponsored and presented by Mark Wright of Majestic Holidays): Mark Hawkins.

Named in tribute to the father of sponsor Mark Wright, the award was given to Mark Hawkins, CEO of Rowcroft Hospice. He has led the organisation through difficult times, stabilising its operations and launching a multi-million-pound regeneration project.

Overall Business of the Year (sponsored by Torbay Council, presented by Mayor Barbara Lewis): Rowcroft Hospice.

Rowcroft Hospice celebrated a triple win: Innovation, Inspirational Leadership and Overall Business of the Year.

Mark Hawkins said: “I’m absolutely delighted (and still a little speechless!) that Rowcroft won three awards.

“These awards are a true reflection of the passion, dedication, and innovation that runs through every part of our hospice. From our frontline teams to our volunteers, supporters, and partners - you make it all possible.

“Thank you to the judges, and congratulations to all the other inspiring businesses and individuals who were recognised. South Devon really is full of talent, vision and heart.”

Lifetime Achievement Award (presented by Jim Parker): Andy Uglow.

This emotional moment of the evening honoured Andy Uglow, who sadly died earlier this year. A passionate community champion, Andy was a nationally recognised Rotarian and a key figure in events such as the Pedal Car Grand Prix and Babbacombe Fair. He also volunteered as Father Christmas’s elf, taught photography, and worked with people with learning disabilities.

Jim Parker said: “Thank you on behalf of Torbay to this very special person, loved and missed by many.”

Andy’s wife, Kathy, collected the award and said: “Andrew Uglow, you should be so proud. I was proud to collect this award on your behalf at the Torbay Business Awards. Your memory lives on and I love you so much.”

Prestigious Lifetime Award for Contribution to Business (presented by Jim Parker): Carolyn Custerson.

Carolyn Custerson, CEO of the English Riviera BID Company, was emotional upon receiving this award.

With over 35 years of experience in UK tourism, Carolyn has held key leadership roles and driven major projects, including the England’s Seafood Coast initiative. She was praised for her tenacity and dedication, particularly in championing Torbay's tourism sector through the pandemic and beyond.

Jim Parker said: “Tonight, I’ve talked about tenacity, enthusiasm, determination and passion. Carolyn has all of those qualities in abundance. 

“She has been Torbay’s voice in Westminster and woe forbid anybody who stands in her way - just ask South West Water when they devastated business in Brixham with a cryptosporidium outbreak. 

“She isn’t just about tourism, she is about Torbay. You couldn’t wish for a more determined and passionate advocate.”

Carolyn said: “It’s not often I get tearful at work or at awards. Well done to the organisers and all the sponsors. It’s such an honour.”