ODIHAM Cake Company is celebrating once more after a successful evening at a national awards ceremony.

Following its nomination as a regional finalist in the Best of British category at the Red Ribbon Awards, the company came second in the category and was awarded the ‘Commended for Excellence’ prize.

The awards are held by Family Business Place. Founded in 2008 by entrepreneur Anita Brightley-Hodges who recognised a need for family­-owned companies to be able to meet, share and learn from each other and tackle the unique challenges not faced by other businesses such as succession and family dynamics.

It is now the UK’s leading events, publishing and advisory company for family firms.

Following the glitzy evening at the home of the England football team, chief cake creator Gareth Jones was honoured to be recognised on such a grand scale.

“It was really exciting to be turning up at Wembley Stadium and then walking along the red carpet It was like a film premiere. We were honoured to be a finalist and to be recognised along with other great family businesses.”

Following the construction of an astounding centrepiece cake for Odiham’s hugely successful street party last month, business is now at an all time high.

But it didn’t stop Mr Jones and his wife being any less shocked when their name was read out at the awards ceremony.

“Through the evening people were collecting their awards and then the category Best of British Awards was up next.

“The finalists were all shown on the big screen and then the winners were announced - I couldn’t believe it!

“I had to look twice at the screen and ask the person next to me on the table, yes there was Odiham Cake Company. We had come second, it was so unexpected that both my wife and I were in shock.

“It was a fantastic feeling and we are so grateful for the award that it just goes to show anything can happen.

“We are both very proud to have an award that recognises the hard work, dedication and hours that we put into running and building our family business making it all worthwhile.”

For more information about Odiham Cake company visit www.odihamcakecompany.co.uk.