LEADING figures of the business community across Hambleton district have had their efforts heralded at an awards ceremony.

Nine accolades, for work ranging from supporting apprentices to producing eye-catching window displays, were presented at Hambleton District Council's inaugural event to highlight outstanding contributions to the local economy.

Chairman of the Northallerton-based £80m turnover Kerfoot Group oil firm, David Kerfoot, of Ainderby Steeple, was handed the Hambleton Champion Award, in recognition of the time and resources he has given to projects in the area and support to the business community.

Thirsk estate agent, Jill Miller won the Community Contribution Award for her years of fundraising with Thirsk and District Business Association's ladies group and supporting key events.

While the apprenticeship Champion Award went to Glenn Young at Heritage Craft Alliance at Thorp Perrow, White Rose BookCafe, in Thirsk received the Best Display title.

The Engaging Young Minds Award went to Rural Arts, in Thirsk, and Gary Lewis, of Betterdaze record shop, in Northallerton, won the Innovation Award and Proper Tasty catering, of Northallerton, landed the The Local is Best Award.

Colin Grimston, of Enterprise North Yorkshire, received the Supporting Entrepreneurs Award for mentoring work and R&R Ice Cream, of Leeming Bar, scooped the Learning and Development Award.