BUSINESS glitterati from across Bolton and Bury gathered last night for their ninth “Oscars” awards ceremony.

The Bolton and Bury Business Awards is organised by The Bolton News and The Bury Times in conjunction with headline sponsors Bolton Council and The University of Bolton.

Up to 400 leaders and staff from companies in the two towns attended the evening, along with the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Martin Donaghy, at The Bolton Whites Hotel.

The Mayor of Bury, Cllr Michelle Wiseman, was also at the event.

Local companies were vying for awards in nine categories, including Start Up Business of the Year, Young Person/Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by MBDA, We're Backing Bolton/Bury Award, sponsored by Carrs Pasties, SME Award, sponsored by Santander, the Community Award, Family Business Award, sponsored by Warings Chartered Accountants, Customer Excellence Award, Business Person of the Year Award, sponsored by Maxim Industries, and Business of the Year, sponsored by Stateside Foods.

The Bolton News and Bury Times editor-in-chief Ian Savage said: “We are delighted once again to be hosting the awards, which has become the biggest and best awards evening in the local business calendar.

“Tonight shows just what a high level of talent there is in the business community of both towns, and it is our pleasure to celebrate everyone’s achievements.

"I would also like to pay tribute to our sponsors who have generously given their support.”