Businesses from Merseyside walked the red carpet on Saturday hoping to win a prize at the annual Liverpool Lifestyle Awards.
The black-tie event was organised by Lifestyle monthly editor Amanda Moss, and hosted by Peep Show actor Neil Fitzmaurice.
He introduced the event, describing the awards as “the Liverpool Oscars”. The actor, comedian and writer told JMU Journalism: “It’s a pat on the back for people who own businesses and work really hard in a really difficult economic climate.
“I think they’ve worked so hard and they sometimes forget that they can enjoy themselves as well. They just get the chance to be appreciated. It’s a really important night.”
Also in attendance was Wavertree MP Luciana Berger, who presented the service to the community award to Mark King and the Oliver King Foundation.
Entertainment throughout the night included dance troupe MD Productions, a Michael Buble tribute and local band The Christians.
MP Berger spoke to JMU Journalism about the importance of these events: “It was a privilege to be invited here this evening to present the community award. It’s a really interesting evening, there have been so many difficult categories, and it’s difficult to choose.
“It’s really nice to be able to celebrate the businesses across the city, particularly the lifestyle sector.”
Other notable award winners included Radio City DJ Pete Price for best personality and the outstanding person award was given to Denise Fergus, who proceeded to give an inspiring and heartfelt speech just after the 20-year anniversary since the death of her son James Bulger.
Upon collecting her award, Denise said: “I’m just so overwhelmed by the night. One day I’m hoping for justice for James, even if it takes for the next 20 years. You’ve given me a bit more strength to carry on in this life.”
Additional reporting by Calum Metcalfe
List of awards & winners:
Best jewellers: Russel & Case
Best after dark venue: Igloo
Best client liaison service: Specsavers L1
Best new business : This Lady Loves
Best nightclub: Monique’s
Best photographer & studio: Modelworx
Best customer service award: Gourmet Coffee
Best private hire venue: OSQA
Best independent property company: Zest Lets
Best letting agents: Belvoir Lettings
Best spa: Olympus
Best bar: The Living Room
Best Personality: Pete Price
Best legal company: Jackson & Canter
Service to the community: Mark King & the Oliver King Foundation
Outstanding person: Denise Fergus