Hereford firm Kingspan Insulation led the way at the annual Hereford and Worcester Chamber of Commerce Awards, held at Eastnor Castle last night.

The Pembridge-based company scooped the coveted title of Business of the Year.

The firm is the world’s leading manufacturer of rigid phenolic and rigid urethane insulation and specialises in the solution of insulation problems, offering one of the widest ranges of insulants available from any UK manufacturer. 2008 saw a record-breaking number of entries, doubling last year's tally.

The full list of winners across the 10 categories

Chief Executive of the Chamber Mike Ashton said, "It has been a fantastic evening, truly celebrating business success.

"The awards process has recognised the high level of quality businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

"We're extremely pleased to congratulate all the winners tonight.

"Competition was extremely fierce, and the impartial and rigorous judging process left nothing to chance, so their success is all the more impressive.

"Congratulations to Kingspan Insulation, rightly flying the flag for business in Herefordshire and Worcestershire - not only a huge commercial success but one with social and environmental awareness right at the heart of its business.

"The Chamber Awards is about celebrating the best of the best in business across the two counties. Supporting the talent and goals of business people on our patch is really what the Chamber is here to do, and we're proud to be able to showcase their achievements here tonight."