Firms honoured at glitzy awards ceremony

On a night when Barnsley fared much better, Rotherham successes were few and far between as the two boroughs’ joint chamber of commerce celebrated its high-achieving members.

Mr Coleman’s firm Vertex Access, which helps tradesmen, road workers and others to access often hard-to-reach locations, was recognised in the design and innovation category.

“We are incredibly proud to win the award,” said Mr Coleman. “From our collective wealth of experience, we can honestly say this new venture is the most exciting journey we have ever undertaken. 

“The genuine passion for innovation found in our colleagues makes us truly believe that anything is possible.”

Also among those popping their champagne corks were representatives of Parkgate-based Jump Inc, which won the prize for the most promising new business, and Rotherham United Community Sports Trust (RUCST), which took the community impact award.

RUCST head of community Jamie Noble said: “This award is testament to not just me but the staff who work tirelessly every single week to drive down inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of our residents.”

Jump Inc founder Chris Hayes said: “To have only had our doors open for 11 months and win an award was overwhelming and a credit to all the hardwork, effort and determination of our staff.”

Elsewhere, it was mostly Barnsley firms who took the top honours, with distribution and warehousing company Universal Components UK singled out as Business of the Year.

The ceremony, hosted by BBC Radio Sheffield presenter Andy Giddings, was held at Magna last Friday night, with nearly 500 guests in attendance.

Chamber of commerce chief executive Andrew Denniff said: “As always, the evening was superb, reflecting all that is best in our region.”

Several companies were given Salute to Business Awards, including 225-year-old Rotherham solicitors Oxley and Coward.