Perrys Exceptional Awards 2017

Recognising outstanding contributions in Kent

We were delighted to welcome our 18 finalists of the Perrys Exceptional Awards 2017 to our ceremony on Thursday 9 November when we celebrated their respective achievements and unveiled the winners of the Perrys Exceptional Business, Perrys Exceptional Business Community Initiative, Perrys Exceptional Individual and Perrys Exceptional Charity categories.  

Throughout 2017 we searched for the charities, individuals and businesses across Kent that have made a real difference the communities around them - and we weren't disappointed with the response!

Hosted in the stunning surroundings of Leeds Castle the evening was a showcase of some of the most uplifting examples of outstanding contributions to the Kent community. There was plenty of smiling, laughter and, at times, tears as we recognised those that have gone above and beyond for those around them.

At Perrys we pride ourselves on providing personal and tailored accountancy advice to our clients, which we believe is exceptional as standard.  This was the inspiration behind our awards and what continues to drive us as we aim to work with those around us to create a community that exceeds the expectations of others. 

Here we find out more about our winners. Congratulations to them and all our 2017 finalists for their incredible contributions and thank you to everyone who has worked with us to make the Perrys Exceptional Awards 2017 possible. 

See you next year!

Watch all the highlights from the Perrys Exceptional Awards 2017 here!

Perrys Exceptional Business 2017 

WINNER: Fudge Kitchen, Canterbury

Fudge Kitchen is a well-loved fixture on Sun Street, selling exceptional fudge in a range of innovative flavours along with fudge-related gifts, including a make-at-home kit and wedding favours. Fudge Kitchen also provides fun fudge-making sessions onsite with their friendly experts.

Patch Hyde from Fudge Kitchen, said:

"It was so humbling to receive this award and be in the company of such amazing people who have such tenacity to do all these things they do. When they called our name we felt very silly. We are silly boys that make fudge and give fudge to people. We try to be kind and give everyone the time of day when they visit our shop, so to have an award for that seems a bit silly, but it is gratefully received."

Our other finalists were:

Green Farm Kent, Shadoxhurst
Blooming Green, Maidstone

Perrys Exceptional Business Community Initiative 2017

WINNER: Green Farm Kent, Shadoxhurst

Maryann and Martin Richmond-Coggan, who own Green Farm Kent – a luxury farmstay and spa - have set up the Pearce-Coggan Foundation. The foundation's policies extend across enhanced health, education and wellbeing through the provision of holidays, retreats and courses for children, young people and adults, especially those who are disadvantaged.

Maryann and Martin said:

"The other nominees are all extraordinary so we feel really honoured and genuinely shocked to have won. Winning this award will really help us to ensure we are known to the people who need us. The event has been a great opportunity to connect with charities and look at ways we can work with them in the future."

 

 

Our other finalists were:

Café du Monde, Dartford
Kent Football Association, Aylesford
Steep Street Coffee House, Folkeston

Perrys Exceptional Individual 2017 

WINNER: Carl Lewis, Tonbridge

Carl was nominated by his wife, Jenny Lewis, for taking such an active role in his local community. Jenny said: "Carl has generously given his time to help the community in so many ways. He helped to clear damage after the severe floods of Christmas 2013, and took over the role of Poppy Appeal coordinator. His hard work has helped to raise a record £34,000 for Tonbridge and its Poppy Appeal."

Commenting on his win, Carl said:

"I wasn't expecting to win, I was expecting the award to go to one of my fellow finalists [Nikki Gough and Ruth Howard], but I was very pleased. To me the exceptional people are the ones who went through the floods and the people who benefit from the work and the money from the British Legion. This will spur me on to do even more for the area and the town."

Our other finalists were:

Nikki Gough, Maidstone
Ruth Howard, Dartford

Perrys Exceptional Charity 2017 

WINNER: More Than Words, Tonbridge

More Than Words is a small charity that was established in 2015, to provide free Makaton sign language training to anyone in the Kent community who cares for a child with communication difficulties. Since opening, the charity has given vital training to over 600 parents and carers across Kent, as well as operating support groups and organising inclusive events.

Paul and Hannah Hughes, who set up the charity, said:

"We feel amazing. We couldn't believe it when our name was called out as we were up against an incredible group of charities. Winning this award will really help More Than Words to spread awareness and reach out to other families who haven't heard of us and need our help."

 

 

Our other finalists were:

3H Fund, Tunbridge Wells
Abigail's Footsteps, Medway
Caring Hands in the Community, Medway
Kent MS Therapy Centre, Canterbury
Tree of Hope, Tonbridge
Tuck by Truck, Herne Bay
What If?... Gallery, Dartford

Perrys Exceptional Awards 2017 - Gallery