The Cherwell Business Awards 2026 programme is now officially open for nominations and applications following its launch at Hook Norton Brewery.
The awards scheme recognises achievement, innovation, and resilience among businesses across the Cherwell district.
Lesley McLean, deputy leader of Cherwell District Council and headline sponsor of the awards, said: “We want to celebrate the dynamism, community spirit, and hard work that characterise the best of the business community across north Oxfordshire.
“The Cherwell Business Awards include categories for charity bodies, new businesses, and to recognise innovation.
“We want to see as broad a range of businesses as possible in the running this year.
“To anyone considering entering, I would say that the process of entering is really rewarding, giving businesses large and small the chance to network, learn from their peers, and get their names out there.”
The launch event brought together sponsors, prospective applicants, and members of the business community to mark the start of another year for the awards, which have become a key fixture in the region’s business calendar.
Placi Espejo, chair of the Cherwell Business Awards, hosted the evening.
Other speakers included CBA director Paddy Patterson, who introduced this year’s award categories and sponsors, and Sarah Jaycock, director of High Spec Composites and a member of the CBA committee, who provided an overview of the nomination and application process while sharing her own experience of the awards and the journey of High Spec Composites.
Darren Rea of Gosford All Blacks spoke about the impact of winning the 2025 Charity and Community Award.
James Clarke, managing director of Hook Norton Brewery, closed the evening with a talk on the brewery’s history, followed by a tasting session showcasing its range of Hooky ales.
The 2026 awards include categories for apprentices, innovation, sustainability, and more.
Sponsors include Siemens Healthineers, Whitley Stimpson, Banbury & District Chamber of Commerce, and Bicester Village.
The Norbar Overall Cherwell Winner will be selected from among all category finalists.
Key dates for the awards include the opening of nominations and applications on March 11, the closing of nominations on May 8, and the close of applications on May 29.
Judging will take place in June, with finalists announced following the sponsors’ meeting in mid-July.
The Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony will take place on September 18 at The Chesterton Hotel.
For more information or to make a nomination, visit cherwellbusinessawards.co.uk.
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