BUSINESSES across the Bradford district were celebrated at the 2024 Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Awards.

Held in The Broadway on Sunday evening, the glittering awards ceremony was a fantastic way to recognise those who go above and beyond.

The awards night was organised by the Telegraph & Argus and LOCALiQ, along with partners the Bradford BID, The Broadway, and Bradford 2025. 

David 'Nova' Nowakowski, originally from Bradford, flew in from the US to host the awards. Over in Colorado, he's the co-host of daytime TV show Loving Living Local. 

The welcome address was given by Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchliffe, along with Ian Ward, who is general manager of The Broadway, while the awards were opened and closed with a performance from international saxophonist Ellie Sax. 

After dinner guests were treated to a surprise performance from G4 who shot to fame on the first series of ITV's The X Factor in 2004, where they pioneered the world of popular opera.

The winners of the 2024 Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Awards 

Hospitality Venue of The Year: The Woodland’s Hotel

Retailer of The Year: The Joke Shop Ltd

Beauty Salon of The Year: Funky & Fresh Hair

Hotel of The Year: Cedar Court Hotel

Customer Service Award: Bethany Smith of The Midland Hotel

Leisure Venue of The Year: Bradford Cathedral

Team of The Year: Emily’s Eatery

New Business of the Year: Hedgehog Organics

Rising Star Award: Holly Marshall – Marshall’s Bakehouse

Takeaway of the Year: Rumpus

This year marked a milestone moment for the awards, with an unprecedented number of entries and an all-time high in attendance.

Joanne Ellerton, regional events manager at LOCALiQ, said: "A remarkable 340 guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of the nominees. 

"The enthusiasm and support from industry professionals, partners, and attendees underscored the significance of the awards and highlighted the exceptional talent within the community.

"This incredible turnout reflects the growing prestige of the awards and the excitement surrounding the evening’s celebrations.

"Catering was provided by MyLahore, who delivered exceptional service and food."

MyLahore, Bradford BID, Regal, and Napoleons also donated prizes to be raffled on the evening in aid of charity partner, the NSPCC.

"The NSPCC makes a huge difference to the lives of the children they support, particularly through their Childline Service, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week," said Joanne. 

"Thank you for everyone’s kind donations."