BOTT, based in Bude, has been awarded Business of the Year — over £30-million category — in the PWC West of England Business Awards.

The award was announced at a gala dinner in Bristol on July 2. The firm specialises in customs workshops, workplace storage, van racking, specialist vehicles and fleet conversions.

The award judged entrants on the following criteria — financial performance; product and service innovation; business management; future prospects; training and other personnel related matters and contribution to the region.

Bott was visited by a panel of expert judges, who toured the site and engaged with members of staff at all levels to enable them to understand the business and what makes it successful.

The judges were looking for current operational excellence and a culture of continuous improvement and development.

The awards come at a time of strong business growth and expansion for Bott, with significant investments being made across the business in plant, equipment and personnel.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.