Blue Diamond rolled out the red carpet at Trentham Garden Centre in Stoke-on-Trent, when they held hosting their 6th Annual Blue Diamond Awards.

The event, which celebrates the group’s greatest achievements from the past year, recognises and rewards the hard work and dedication of staff throughout their garden centres and restaurants.

A total of 23 awards were presented on the night recognising outstanding achievements in all departments within the group from the business’ core Plants and Gardening categories to Home, and Customer Service through to Head Chef.

The judging panel, which was chaired by Managing Director, Alan Roper, was made up of the group’s buying and operations teams.

‘Our centre and restaurant staff have worked incredibly hard this year and it was a really tough deliberation process,’ said Mr Roper. ‘Because it’s very important to duly recognise the hard work and successes of these individuals, it’s crucial that we consider all of the nominees carefully before deciding on the winner.’

‘Garden Centre of the Year’ was awarded to Newbridge Nurseries who joined the group in January 2015. ‘I’m thrilled we won such a prestigious award’, says Newbridge Nurseries Manager, Steve Nicholls. ‘It really has been the best 13 months of my career since we joined the group and with the help and leadership of Alan, we can see the light!’

The Vines Restaurant, based at Chatsworth Garden Centre, won the final award of the evening with Restaurant Manager, Eloise Young, who also manages The Garden Gallery at Matlock Garden Centre, taking to the stage. ‘I want to thank my fantastic teams at both restaurants for all of their support and for helping me to grow in Blue Diamond.’ Says Ms. Young. ‘This award spurs me on to achieve and look forward to another fantastic year!’.

Catering for the event was Blue Diamond’s very own restaurant team at Trentham Garden Centre, headed up by father and daughter team, Mike and Kelly McGlynn, who prepared and served guests with a delicious 3-course menu.

Also attending the event were the group’s board members including Life Chairman and member of the founding family of Blue Diamond, Geoff Dorey, accompanied by his wife, Jenny; Sir John Collins, accompanied by his wife Sue; recent addition to the board, Patricia Alford-Burnett and Group Chairman, Simon Burke.

Roy Walker, Manager of 3 Shires Garden Centre, was also honoured with a special mention and gift at the end of the ceremony. Over the next year, Mr Walker will be retiring after 18 years of outstanding contribution and dedication to company.