SHEPHERD Neame has been honoured for its work with the community.

The 300-year old Faversham brewer won the Corporate Social Responsibility Award at this year’s National Business Awards.

Sheps saw off rivals British Sky Broadcasting, Camelot, HBOS, Serco, Burdens, 4Delivery, Building Blocks Solutions, Burdens, GCap Media and Lindum Group to land the top prize.

Judges were impressed by its company-wide commitment to CSR and various projects and policies that have had a positive impact on the local community in terms of the environment, jobs, education and charitable work.

The award was presented at a gala ceremony in London’s Grosvenor House Hotel hosted by the BBC’s Fiona Bruce.

Sheps chief executive Jonathan Neame said: "This award is testament to the hard work and investment that has gone into ensuring Shepherd Neame operates a sustainable and responsible business in a market currently under the spotlight.

"As Britain’s oldest brewer, we have acted upon our commitment to the environment and the community for decades; with continued financial success. This accolade, judged as it is by our peers in UK industry, is the ultimate recognition of our dedication to corporate social responsibility."

Philip Forrest, chairman of the judges, said: "Shepherd Neame is a deserving winner as its business model and approach to fulfilling its responsibilities goes far beyond standard environmental, economic and social benchmarks."

The National Business Awards, sponsored by Orange, recognise and reward excellence, innovation and success.