Simon Rigby had a good week at the BIBAs

Simon Rigby at the BIBA’s 2017

Simon Rigby, the entrepreneur behind the renaissance of Preston’s City Centre, was the winner of the lifetime achievement prize, Lancastrian of the Year, at the ‘Be Inspired Business Awards’ (BIBAs 2017).

The BIBAs took place at Blackpool Tower on Friday 15 September in front of a sell-out audience.

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Simon Rigby, born in Fylde, whose property includes the city’s Guild Hall, has a diverse business portfolio including green energy and care homes.

He has been credited with the revival of Preston Guild Hall and bought a number of other properties in Preston including Five’s bar and the Guild Tower office block.

Other winners on the night included CoolKit, the Burnley refrigerated van specialist, who picked up the Business of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year Prizes.

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Preston-based Sunshine Events also came away with the Employer of the Year and Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility awards.

Francis Egan, chief executive at headline sponsor Cuadrilla Resources, said the calibre of finalists for the awards’ 18 prizes highlighted the depth of quality within Lancashire’s economy. He said:

“It as inspiring to see so many businesses and the individuals behind them being recognised for their enthusiasm, innovation and sheer hard work at the BIBAs.

“My congratulations go out to everyone who made it to The Blackpool Tower for another fantastic night, every one of them is playing a crucial role in ensuring the economy of Lancashire continues to thrive.

“With the mark of quality which being a BIBA winner brings, I have no doubt those who walked away with trophies will continue to deliver growth, jobs and investment for the county.”

Actor Nigel Havers hosted the evening, with pop stars Bryan McFadden and Shane Duffy entertaining the crowd after the awards.

All the winners will now enter the BIBA’s Academy, which is a package of workshops, masterclasses and networking run by the awards and UCLan, aimed at further boosting growth of some of the county’s leading lights.

Did you attend the BIBAs 2017? Have you visited Preston Guild Hall recently? Let us know in the comments below