Woo hoos all round as St Albans businesses recognised for their achievements at awards ceremony

Entrepreneurs who have set up their own companies in difficult economic circumstances were given a boost at a business awards.

St Albans Businesses held the Woo Hoo Achievement Evening at the city’s Mercure Noke Hotel to recognise those who have achieved a great deal by setting up their own companies and making them a success.

The organisation, which provides support to independent businesses in St Albans and gives them a place to share thoughts and ideas, encouraged people to nominate those who they felt had achieved highly in the past year.

Instead of a traditional awards ceremony where winners are chosen for individual categories, St Albans Businesses founder Sue Wybrow thought all of those nominated deserved a pat on the back.

So each nominee was given a Woo Hoo award at the event on Wednesday, June 28 and handed a gold Pineapple money box in recognition of their achievements.

Mrs Wybrow said: “There are so many people doing good things and we need to know about what they are achieving.

“We thought it would be great for people to nominate someone they thought deserves a pat on the back.”

Among those rewarded on the evening were Amanda Brown of Alterra Consulting, who was described as a “go to person” who could often be relied upon to give help and advice.

Danielle Durant was described as a “true inspiration with her determination to help others to make the most of what’s in their cupboard to create delicious, healthy food” at her business, The Cobbled Kitchen, while Jenny Soppitt-Smith was praised for growing her business, Digital Jen.

Andy Hooper, of AJ Hooper Farming, was also among those recognised for keeping his family business going during a difficult time in the farming industry, while Claire Boyles at Success Matters was honoured for providing forums where businesses can discuss ideas.

Sally Shepherd, of Eve and Adam Day Spa, said: “It was an amazing evening, full of supportive, friendly and inclusive people - very inspiring, motivating and such fun.

“I can’t wait for next year’s Woo Hoos.”