NINE Hambleton businesses are celebrating after taking top prizes at the district council’s annual awards ceremony.

And for the first time three local business entrepreneurs were singled out for a special award - the Legacy award was shared between Charles Barker of Northallerton and Mark and Sue Dicken of Stokesley.

“The quality of the entries in this, our fourth year, was the best so far,” said deputy leader Cllr Peter Wilkinson. “It gave the judges a real challenge in deciding who should be honoured especially with the Legacy award where the nominees could not be separated.

“These awards give a great opportunity to highlight some of the people and businesses here in Hambleton - recognising the range and diversity, their achievements and those of the people who work for them.”

Others awards went to apprentice Rebecca Salmon Owens from Hollins Stables in East Rounton; Walter Thompson Contractors of Northallerton; Rachael Roberts of Wensleydale Railway; Inspired Pet Products of Dalton; Blossom Home Care of Northallerton; Yorks of Thirsk tea rooms; and First Monday business network in Stokesley,