A COLLECTION of Bradford’s best businesses and bright minds celebrated the 2022 Telegraph & Argus Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Awards during a glitzy ceremony at The Broadway on Sunday evening.

The event was put on by the Telegraph & Argus in partnership with hosts The Broadway and Bradford BID.

The evening kicked off with a drinks reception for hundreds of guests featuring Bradford’s best in the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors.

Tributes were paid to the late Harry Gration who has presented the awards ceremony over the years.

This year’s MC for the awards , Bradford-born David ‘Nova’ Nowakowski, said: “Harry Gration was a true gentleman and an advocate for the city of Bradford.

“He always had a smile on his face and we’ll be thinking of Harry tonight.”

Ian Ward, general manager of The Broadway and chairman of Bradford BID, added: “Harry delivered these awards the past few years. He was fine Bradfordian and an incredible broadcaster.”

Mr Ward said the awards, which has taken six months to plan, are the perfect time to “recognise the heroes of our industry”.

“These awards are all about sharing our love, appreciation and thanks to recognise the heroes of our industry.

“The Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Awards provide a great opportunity for businesses who have proved through the pandemic that they can overcome the difficulties.”

After a performance by entertaining saxophone player Ellie Sax, the guests were treated to a three-course meal provided by MyLahore.

Steve Lowe, director of Local IQ, paid tribute to The Broadway for putting on the event.

“What a fabulous logistical organisation The Broadway is,” he said “I’d like to say a big thank you MyLahore, The Broadway, Bradford BID and my team who help to put pizzaz into the event.

“This really is a unique event as not many cities across the country have one.”

Mr Ward also said: “Eighty per cent of people still prefer to do their shopping in person.

“Despite the economic gloom, confidence is growing across the district.

“There is no more important time to support local businesses.

“Good luck to you all tonight. Whether or not you win, in my opinion, you are all heroes.”

Guest speaker, Cllr Susan Hincliffe, Leader of Bradford Council, said she knows that the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors are important for a prosperous Bradford city centre.

As part of comprehensive regeneration of the city centre, Cllr Hinchcliffe talked about refurbishing the former Odeon Cinema.

She said: “This (Bradford Live) will be a top quality live entertainment venue with a 3,000 seat auditorium. It will create a sustainable city centre.”

She also talked about transforming green spaces and delivering 2,500 new homes in Bradford, and added that “we’re not giving up on the Northern Powerhouse Rail”.

“We need excellent people like you in the retail, leisure and hospitality sector,” she added, make reference to the Bradford City of Culture 2025. “This is our time to be recognised, both nationally and internationally.”

A total of 11 awards were then presented on the evening. They were: Hospitality Venue of the Year - Martinez Wine Bar.

Retailer of the Year - Pennine Cycles Hair and Beauty Salon of the Year - Marios Hairdressing Hotel of the Year - The Midland Hotel Customer Service Excellence - Jinnah Leisure Venue of the Year - St George’s Hall Customer Service - Beth Smith Team of the Year - Robertshaw’s Farm Shop New Business of the Year - VR City Rising Star - Elizabeth Ambler Established Business of the Year - Bradford City AFC.