The winner of the LEAP Entrepreneur of the Year was announced last night, Thursday 13 July, at a glittering awards ceremony at Lewes Town Hall.

The Lewes District Council sell-event was attended by over 220 people, including the five LEAP finalists, with trophies presented by BBC News correspondent, Ben Brown.

Anna Lane from Treatment Tents won the award after judges commented on her unique business idea of creating relaxing spas for festival and events.

The judging process for the award was highly competitive, with 15 candidates all competing for the prize following the successful conclusion of the LEAP Entrepreneur Programme run by Edeal Enterprise Agency on behalf of Lewes District Council.

Other winners on the night included Bluebell Railway Plc, named Culture, Leisure & Tourism, Nathaniel Hepburn of Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, who is the newly-crowned Businessperson of the Year, Plumpton Racecourse, which won the Best Place to Entertain Clients, and Fundraising Auctions, the 2017 Best Business Growth.

Now in their fourth year, the Awards offer a fantastic opportunity for many different types of businesses to come together and celebrate the District’s business talent and achievement, recognising success, innovation and excellence amongst the business community.

Commenting on this year’s winners Councillor Andy Smith, Leader of Lewes District Council, said:

“This awards scheme showcases the talent, dedication and sheer drive of business leaders from across both the Lewes District. I am truly honoured to be able to highlight their achievements and wish them continued success in the future.”