JUDGES of the coveted in-Cumbria awards praised the ‘remarkable achievements and visionary leadership’ of the county’s business community.

A prestigious panel of judges with leading figures from across the Cumbrian business community gathered to decide on the shortlist for the much anticipated in-Cumbria Business Awards, to be held in November.

The awards are organised by in-Cumbria magazine owner Newsquest Cumbria, and return once again to honour all the best of the business community.

Rebecca Graves, Director at NRL, the awards' headline sponsor, said: “I’m sure I speak for the full judging panel when I say it was an honour to be asked to judge this year's in-Cumbria Business Awards.

“What an incredible privilege to bear witness to the remarkable achievements, visionary leadership and social impact of Cumbria’s fantastic business community.”

Judges in the 2023 in-Cumbria Business Awards are:

• Rachael Bell, Rachael Bell Wealth Management

• Carol O-Donoghue, Cartmell Shepherd

• Graham Lamont, Lamont Pridmore

• Mark Bowman, Inspira

• Karen Hadley, University of Cumbria

• Kelly Ashbridge, Cumberland Building Society

• Caroline Barber, 32West

• Gail Rajjayaburn, David Allen

• Jim Walker, Cumbria Tourism

• Rebecca Graves, NRL

Graham Lamont, of Lamont Pridmore, said: “The standard of entries this year was very high and deciding on the eventual shortlist and then the winner of each category was extremely difficult so everyone shortlisted should be very proud”

Kelly Ashbridge, from Cumberland Building Society, said: “Being involved in judging the In-Cumbria business awards alongside an incredible network of judges has been such an honour, and a responsibility not taken lightly. Pride is the overwhelming feeling I’d use to describe what it’s been like to take the time to get to know a number of businesses across several categories.

“What we have to offer in our region is nothing short of inspirational. The standard and quality of applications made for some difficult decisions, but what a great problem to have had. I’m looking forward to the results being finalised and announced in November and recognising all of the finalists for this year.”

The awards will take place on November 23, returning to The Halston Hotel, Carlisle, for a night of celebration to toast the cream of Cumbria’s business community.