Bridlington businesses shine at first Ambassadors awards night

The best of Bridlington’s business community was celebrated during a glittering awards evening held in January at the Belvedere Golf Club.

More than 120 guests attended the first-ever business event organised by the Bridlington Ambassadors, bringing together local entrepreneurs, community leaders and politicians for an evening of recognition and networking.

The event was made possible thanks to the sponsorship of Bridlington-based chartered accountants and business advisers Lloyd Dowson, whose support helped turn the Ambassadors’ vision into reality. The venue was transformed for the occasion, creating an impressive setting for what many described as a landmark night for the town’s commercial sector.

Bridlington MP Charlie Dewhirst was among the main guests and presented the Best Visitor Experience Award, which was sponsored by the Bridlington Echo. The award recognised businesses that go the extra mile in welcoming visitors and showcasing what the town has to offer.

A particularly emotional moment came when Lesley Jackson collected the Business Philanthropy Award on behalf of her late husband, Dave Jackson, who sadly passed away last year. The award honoured his lasting contribution to the local community and charitable causes across Bridlington.

One of the Bridlington Ambassadors, Martyn Coltman, was overwhelmed with the success of the evening. He said: “It was so lovely to see so many local people, business owners and leaders, local politicians and key business organisations attending the first annual Bridlington Business Awards 2026. Everyone seemed to have the most enjoyable evening and the wonderful feedback certainly appears to prove that was the case.

“We set out to achieve recognition for as many local, independent business people as possible, and for those attending to get to see, network with and promote other businesses that they may not have been aware of.

“These brand new awards will always focus on the strength and quality which we have to offer here, in what is still the largest centre of population in the East Riding.

“We have a range, depth and variety of businesses of which we can all be very proud. Please therefore take the time to support them whenever and wherever you can.”

He also thanked everyone involved, including the Belvedere Brasserie, Emma from Husband Harvey Events for the theming, event host Mandy Appleyard and the many generous sponsors and volunteers who donated time and equipment to ensure the night was a success.

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