An Essex bakery firm has been named Business of the Year at this year’s Barking & Dagenham Business Awards.

Craft bakery business Amber Foods, based in Barking, took the top accolade at an awards ceremony at the Broadway Theatre on Tuesday (3 July), hosted by TV presenter Ray Stubbs.

Judges noted that the bakery has created a loyal customer base and has a strong focus on research and development. “As a company in a tough, competitive market, Amber Foods Plus is a great example of growth and success,” they added.

Paul Bishop, business relationship manager for the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, said: “We had a very strong set of entries this year and it was a tough decision for our judges to reach a verdict.”