An independent financial advisory was visited by the Defence Secretary as it was recognised as the first winner of a campaign looking for firms with big hearts.

Chevening Financial, based in Sundridge, hosted Sevenoaks MP Sir Michael Fallon on Friday as it was recognised for its work helping pensioners.

It received the first BusinessesForSale.com Small Business Big Heart award for its eight-year long programme of taking housebound elderly people out for shopping and socialising.

Director David Hawes-Gatt used the occasion to donate the company’s £1,000 prize money to DEBRA, a charity which supports people affected by the skin condition Epidermolysis Bullosa.

Mr Hawes-Gatt has clocked up 4,000 miles taking groups on trips for Christmas lunches, cream teas and days at the seaside.

Sir Michael said: “I was delighted to be able to congratulate David and his team at Chevening Financial in person for receiving this award.

“Becoming a regional finalist was impressive; winning the national competition is a quite remarkable achievement.

“I am proud that a business in my constituency is playing such an active role in the community and I look forward to hearing more about its work in the future.”

Mr Hawes-Gatt said: “It seemed like the obvious thing to do and now it’s one of the best parts of my week. The time since I started has really flown by and the ladies are fantastic company.

“Getting an award is great, and even more so since we can pass on the prize money to another great cause.”