High Spec Composites were delighted to attend the 2025 Cherwell Business Awards last month, an evening dedicated to celebrating the incredible innovation, resilience, and community spirit of businesses across Cherwell District.

The prestigious gala dinner took place on Friday, 19 September 2025 at The Chesterton Hotel, Bicester, where finalists, sponsors, and guests came together to recognise outstanding achievements. The atmosphere was filled with pride and anticipation as awards were presented across a range of categories, shining a spotlight on the diverse talent within the region.

Alongside award presentations, the evening also included a charitable appeal which raised £1,852, generously matched by Bicester Village, resulting in £3,704 donated to local charities. The event also honoured Michael Rafferty of Warriner School with the Becky Moyce Tribute Award, recognising his exceptional work in careers education and community engagement.

Our Director, Sarah, had the honour of presenting the Town Centre Award, a category designed to celebrate businesses and initiatives breathing life and vibrancy into local high streets.

The finalists for the 2025 Town Centre Award were:

  • The Pizza Boys Bicester – A much-loved eatery that has become a cornerstone of Bicester’s town centre and events, praised for its, focus on quality, strong community ties, and ability to attract footfall.

  • The Sense of Hearing – An independent audiology clinic dedicated to improving health and wellbeing while boosting Banbury’s local economy. The business was also shortlisted in the New Business category.

  • Lock 29 – A creative and cultural space that has reimagined town centre use by blending leisure, events, and community-driven initiatives.

The award went to The Pizza Boys Bicester, whose dedication to creating a thriving town centre presence and community-focused approach made them the standout winner.

Reflecting on her role, Sarah commented:

“Presenting the Town Centre Award at the 2025 Cherwell Business Awards was a tremendous privilege. The finalists — The Pizza Boys, The Sense of Hearing, and Lock 29 — each bring a unique vision for how town centres can evolve and remain relevant to their communities. Congratulations to The Pizza Boys on a thoroughly deserved win, and to all the finalists for their inspiring contributions.”

Other notable winners of the evening included:

  • Repolywise – Innovation Award

  • Cherwell Collective CIC – Sustainable Business Award

  • Contact Web – Winner of both the New Business Award and the Overall Cherwell Winner Award

  • Banbury Permanent Makeup – Micro Business Award

  • Banbury Postiche Ltd – Small Business Award

  • Bicester Motion – Large Business Award

  • Gosford All Blacks RFC / Oxfordshire RFU – Charity & Community Award

  • Bryan Ng (Repolywise) – Young Business Person of the Year

  • Vassilis Ragoussis (Oxeco) – Business Person of the Year

High Spec Composites extend heartfelt congratulations to all finalists and winners of the 2025 Cherwell Business Awards. The evening not only showcased business excellence but also underlined the strength of community and collaboration that continues to drive Cherwell forward.

A huge thank you to the Cherwell Business Awards team, judges, and sponsors for delivering another truly memorable event. We are proud to have been part of such an inspiring celebration and look forward to supporting the awards in years to come.