Sponsored by Guardian Series Newspapers, this award is for the individual whose originality and dynamic approach to business has moved the company forward significantly, taking into consideration evidence of drive & determination, achievements made and how they have added value to the company.

The award was presented by Managing Director of Guardian Series newspapers Eleanor Underhill.

This years winner was Frank Melling of The Thundersprint

Seven years ago, Frank Melling stood above Marks and Spencer’s store in Northwich in the icy cold of a freezing January fog. It was pitch dark and difficult to see anything - but not for Frank.

He arrived home bubbling with excitement and 110% certain that the Thundersprint was going to be a success in Northwich.

Now, the 100,000 Thundersprint fans, that only Frank saw so clearly that winter’s night, are the reality of the Thundersprint in Northwich.

Working with, and for, Frank is never an easy option mainly because merely excellent is never enough. He is hard on everyone around him but, always leading from the front, is most demanding of himself.

Judges comments: He has impact on the whole area. Not just making an impact on the Vale Royal region but its intense impact to create the second largest event of its kind worldwide. This not only brings people/money into VR but also into surrounding areas for hotel accommodation etc. £1.87m of which coming into VR area.