The waiting is almost over. At around 10pm tonight, Friday, a dozen of Medway’s finest businesses will find out if it’s to be glory – or a tinge of disappointment.

But “disappointment” is a poor way to describe a night of celebration for the 12 companies that make the final, if not the podium.And for our 2016 Medway Business of the Year, and winners of special awards, there will be plenty to celebrate.

Tonight’s Medway business night of the year takes place at Priestfield, Gillingham and will be attended by more than 200 guests. It's time for the 12 finalists to celebrate their achievements and the part that Medway has played in that success.

The awards are the county’s oldest business contest, founded in the aftermath of the closure of Chatham’s naval dockyard in 1984. It was the idea of Medway Messenger’s former deputy editor David Jones to show there was still business life in the Towns.

Cllr Jane Chitty, Medway Council’s economic growth chief, is looking forward to the ceremony.

She said: “The range of businesses that have entered the Medway Business Awards over the years provide excellent examples of our diverse economy. Successful business creates the jobs and lively community. They have never let us down.”

Susan Jennings, chair of judges, said: “We had a tough job choosing the finalists. This year’s competition highlights once again that Medway has some impressive businesses.”

So who will experience the thrill of triumph tonight? Chris and Caroline Webster, founders of DCB Kent), last year’s Medway Business of the Year, know what it’s like.

“We came to the event not really expecting anything,” Chris said after lifting the trophy. “I’m so stunned but so happy. We will go home and think – wow, did that really happen? It’s amazing.”

DCB, a construction firm in Hartlip, won a glass trophy and a cheque for £500.
The couple recalled what the accolade had done for their business. “We’ve had lots of positive feedback from clients,” Chris said.

“To have an external organisation recognise you can only add value,” Caroline added.
Donations at tonight’s event will support the Oliver Fisher Special Care Baby Trust.

The awards are sponsored by Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB), Furley Page, Handelsbanken, KM Media Group, Kent Business School, Kreston Reeves, Medway Council, MidKent College, National Grid, Southeastern, Uniper, University of Greenwich