AN engineering firm was praised for its commitment to staff development and environmental issues as it scooped the top prize at an awards event. Lettergold Plastics Ltd took the Judges' prize at the Newmarket Business Awards 2006, which took place at the Rowley Mile Racecourse .

AN engineering firm was praised for its commitment to staff development and environmental issues as it scooped the top prize at an awards event.

Lettergold Plastics Ltd took the Judges' prize at the Newmarket Business Awards 2006, which took place at the Rowley Mile Racecourse on Friday .

The fifth annual awards, organised by the Newmarket Business Association, were aimed at highlighting and celebrating the wealth and diversity of business expertise in the town, and rewarding the high standards attained.

There were 11 individual categories, with the overall winner receiving the Judges' Award.

Lettergold, a firm specialising in injection moulding, contract packaging and domestic water treatment products, which employs around 25 staff, also scooped the Health and Safety award.

“Throughout the course of the judging day, the panel kept coming back to an outstanding entry. The judges were impressed by this company which is competing in an increasingly difficult market,” judges said.

“Their commitment to research and development stands them in good stead and they have some good quality clients. They go beyond statutory requirements both in terms of environmental issues and staff development.”

The Large Business of the Year title went to 'intelligent' telemarketing company Blue Donkey Ltd, which was praised for its community focus and strong commitment to staff development and training.

The Small Business of the Year award went to Lara B, which also won the Retailer of the Year award, and New Business of the Year was awarded to Twin Dots.

Stetchworth Farm Estate scooped the Community Engagement Award and the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

Business Personality of the Year was Kevin Hancock of The Davis Group.

Other prize winners were: Fordham C of E Primary School (Employee Development Award), Atkinson Bolton Consulting Ltd (Innovative Use of Technology) and Richard Corbett Photography (Customer Focus Award).

SP Landscapes & Tree Contractors Ltd and Atkinson Bolton Consulting Ltd were highly commended.

The awards evening raised more than £1,500 for Newmarket Day Centre, including matching funding from Barclays Bank.