The Wakefield BID Awards 2024 lit up the city last night, bringing together the best of Wakefield’s businesses, community organisations, and individuals for a night of celebration and recognition. Held at Wakefield Cathedral, the awards honoured those who go above and beyond to make Wakefield a vibrant and welcoming city.
From community champions to thriving independent businesses, the event highlighted the incredible achievements that continue to shape Wakefield’s city centre.
Winners and Nominees
Community Organisation/Charity of the Year
Nominees: Wakefield Pride, My Eco Baby, Community Foundation Wakefield District
Winner: My Eco Baby – Recognised for its commitment to sustainability, supporting families and fostering community connections.
Manager of the Year
Nominees: Craig Lockwood (Patio), Katie Nicholson (Grind), Laura Mason (Six Chimneys)
Winner: Katie Nicholson (Grind) – Celebrated for her exceptional leadership and vision.
Employee of the Year
Nominees: Lorraine Holliday (Patio), Sharon Dooley (Icon), Beth Fryer (Grind)
Winner: Sharon Dooley (Icon) – A shining example of dedication and customer service.
Independent Business of the Year
Nominees: Transform Images, Wakefield Comics 616, Café 19
Winner: Café 19 – Honoured for fantastic homemade food, friendly service and community-focused approach.
Hospitality and Leisure Business of the Year
Nominees: Icon, Tet, Qubana
Winner: Qubana – For a warm-welcoming restaurant delivering an unmatched hospitality experience and amazing food.
New Business of the Year
Nominees: Hilton Lounge, DB Fashion, Tanned
Winner: Tanned – Applauded for its contribution to the local business scene.
Outstanding Contribution to the City Centre
Nominees: Nathan Birkenshaw, Joanne King (Wakefield Pride), Café 19
Winner: Joanne King – Recognised for her tireless work promoting inclusivity and community engagement over the past 20 years.
Professional Services Business of the Year
Nominees: Watchworks of Wakefield, Scott Banks, First Choice Recruitment
Winner: First Choice Recruitment – For their outstanding professional service and community impact.
Retail Business of the Year
Nominees: HMV, Wakefield Antiques and Collectibles, Wakefield Trinity Retail
Winner: Wakefield Trinity Retail – A firm favourite for its impact to the local area and customer care.
Shoppers Award
Nominees: M&S, Primark, Sainsbury’s
Winner: Primark – Chosen by the public for its consistent value and popularity.
Overall Business of the Year
Winner: Wakefield Trinity Retail – An all-around champion for its excellence and contribution to Wakefield.
A Night to Remember
Reflecting on the success of the evening, Thomas Wales, Chief Executive of Wakefield BID, said:
“The Wakefield BID Awards are a highlight of our year, as they allow us to celebrate the incredible businesses and individuals who make our city centre such a special place. Wakefield BID exists to champion these organisations, and last night was a wonderful reminder of the talent, passion, and resilience in our community. From outstanding achievements to surprises like a visit from the Grinch, the evening truly captured the spirit of Wakefield. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners—you are the heartbeat of our city!”
The event not only celebrated the winners but also demonstrated the strength and resilience of Wakefield’s business community.
Congratulations to all nominees and winners who make Wakefield a city to be proud of!
