English Wine Group announced as SME Business of the year at KEiBA 2009. Picture: Paul Dennis

Enterprises and individuals across the county are celebrating glory in the first-ever Kent Excellence in Business Awards.

On a glittering night in the
elegant setting of Leeds Castle, nine organisations and three
entrepreneurs stepped up to receive a handsome glass trophy crafted
by Maidstone artist Annie Ross.

The inaugural awards, jointly run
by Kent County Council and KM Group, attracted 500 guests to the
county’s business night of the year.

Around 200 enterprises entered the
awards, with 33 finalists representing the cream of Kent business
competing for the prizes.

Graham Webb, chairman of the
judges, said: "The KEiBAs are the premier benchmark of business
success, demonstating the excellence across our county’s commercial
life. The glass trophy is a coveted symbol of that achievement.
Well done to all the finalists. You are an inspiration to us
all."

Kevin Lynes, KCC’s Cabinet member
for regeneration, said: "KEiBA is set to become the key business
event of the year in Kent."

Geraldine Allinson, chairman of the
KM Group, added: "I congratulate all the finalists who have done so
much to show just what a marvellous location for business Kent has
always been and will continue to be. Despite the challenges, they
have demonstrated outstanding achievements."