It was a night that many will never forget.

The 14th annual Winchester Business Excellence Awards took over the city's famous Guildhall for a ceremony honouring local businesses.

Hosted by Daily Echo editor in chief Ian Murray, the big prize of the night was the Denplan Business of the Year.

The nominees were only in for a chance of claiming the top prize if they had already claimed one of the other eight prizes on offer.

The award went to commercial service provider, Anchor Pipework.

Anchor was originally established in 1983 and provides mechanical and electrical services across the South of England, to commercial, industrial and domestic clients 24 hours-a-day.

They provide bespoke solutions to best suit customer requirements, ensuring best value is achieved at all times.

Before the award ceremony, the audience were also treated to guest speaker Penny Mallory, who told stories of her life as a professional rally driver.

Pick up a copy of the Hampshire Chronicle on Thursday for pictures and a full report.

Tonight's winners: The Entrepreneur of the Year award, sponsored by The University of Winchester - The Walcote Practice.

The Green Business of the Year award, sponsored by Winchester City Council - Sparsholt College.

The Independent Business of the Year award, sponsored by Winchester BID - Jeremy France Jewellers.

The Service Excellence award, sponsored by The Breeze - Winchester Royal Hotel.

The Small - Medium Business of the Year award, sponsored by Rooster Creative Marketing - Anchor Pipework.

The Excellence in Innovation award, sponsored by Wilkins Kennedy - Naomi House and Jacksplace.

The New Business of the Year award, sponsored by Paris Smith - Happy Hounds.

Dementia Friendly Business of the Year award, sponsored by Bluebird Care - Shentons Solicitors and Meditators.

The Business of the Year award, sponsored by Denplan - Anchor Pipework.