After starting up as two men in a van six years ago, a small maintenance and engineering company has taken the top prize at the Dartford and Gravesham Business Awards.

Jones FM, which employs more than 40 people, was named Business of the Year from 12 finalists at a ceremony in Princes Park Stadium.

The facilities management firm, run by brothers Chris and Bradley Jones, manages property across London and the South East for several blue chip companies like Blackstone Group, One America Square and Tullow Oil.

The company, based in Crossways Business Park, Dartford, impressed judges with its work to reduce costs and save energy for businesses in the premises and offices it looks after, from installing LED lighting to providing automated meter reading.

Bradley said: "We're ecstatic. We didn't expect this at all.

"We're all about customer service. We have 100% customer retention because we build relationships and try to predict maintenance costs rather than hitting clients with a big bill."

Chris added: "We haven't lost a contract since we started. We are overwhelmed with this award. What a great result."

The runner up spot was taken by digital media agency the Creation Lab, based at the Nucleus Innovation Centre, Dartford.

It designs and develops websites, as well as producing interactive videos, virtual tours, mobile apps and virtual flipbooks.

Third place was won by NRG Gym, which launched in Gravesend town centre two and a half years ago.

It offers a no fee, no contract membership at a reasonable monthy price and prides itself on its long opening hours, personal training and eco-friendly sensored lighting.

The remaining finalists were presented with certificates at the black tie evening hosted by kmfm newsreader Nicola Everett.