A FUNERAL director was named Overall Business Winner at the Cherwell Business Awards on Friday.

Edd Frost, who runs Banbury-based Edd Frost & Daughters, told an audience of 200 he was inspired to set up his firm following the sudden death of his mother and father.

Mr Frost said: “The arrangements for planning my parents’ funerals is something I remember every day and what it feels like to lose someone you love.”

Business Person of the Year was won by Chris Maynard of Bicester firm Castle Minibus, which specialises in school transport.

Charlotte Houghton of accountants Ellacotts which sponsored the award, said: “Chris’ passion for his work, his ability to identify this gap in the market and, in particular, the way he campaigns for children’s safety was so inspiring.”

Other winners announced during the gala night at Heythrop Park Hotel near Enstone included Hawkins Group, named Employer of the Year.

The Charity & Community Award went to Launton charity The Hummingbird Centre, which supports cancer sufferers and their families.

Apprenticeship of the Year went to social media agency SocialSidekick, while the Innovation and Creativity gong was won by Ethos Technology which has offices at Bloxham Mill.

Options: Beauty and the Boutique took the Retail Award top spot, with the award sponsored by designer outlet Bicester Village and John Nicholls Trading was named Established Business of the Year.

Bicester bakery and café Savoir Fare topped two categories - Micro Business of the Year and New Business Award.

The Small Business Award, sponsored by the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, went to lava shell therapy firm Shared Beauty Secrets.

Hosted by Banbury Sound radio presenter Kirsty Leahy, the evening also included a drinks reception, three-course dinner, disco and raffle, which raised more than £1,500 for The Hummingbird Centre.

A full list of winners is at: cherwellbusinessawards.co.uk