Telford businessman Steve Holding was celebrating today after the company he started as a small agricultural-based business in 1985 scooped the top honour at the Shropshire Business Awards.

The team from SP Holding Group let out a huge cheer as the Horsehay waste removal and drainage experts were named Company of the Year at the glittering ceremony held at the Park Inn, Telford.

The company took the brave decision amid a credit crunch, which turned into a recession, to expand services, diversify, and rebrand in a bid to push forward impressive growth.

And the ambition and the performance of the company, led by Mr Holding, was recognised by the judges who backed SP Holding in a tight race with Technology Supplies of Tern Hill and Henshalls Insurance Brokers.

SP Holding offers a wide range of products and services to both the commercial and domestic markets, operating a 24/7 operation with a core business of waste removal, drainage, sewer and pump well cleaning, and tankering and pollution control.

Mr Holding said: “We are really thrilled to win this award, it’s brilliant.

“No job is too big or too small and the company pursues its goal of the most efficient, effective and economic solution for all its customers.”

Turnover at SP Holding increased from £4.6 million in 2007 to £7.6 million in 2008, showing the company’s resilience despite the economic downturn.

Proud

Mr Holding added: “The company is extremely proud of its Shropshire origins and has always been keen to support and promote local community projects. The company has been a major supporter of the West Midland Show for a number of years and will continue to assist in its increasing success.”

Chamber president Tony Randall thanked guests for their support and said the Chamber had had a very successful year.

Master of ceremonies for the evening was the Shropshire Star’s assistant editor Carl Jones who handed over to business editor Amy Bould for the presentations.

Also a winner on the night was Kerry Swinton, of Teeny Beanies, who picked up a £4,000 cash prize after scooping the Star Idea title. The children’s beanbag creator picked up the most online votes in the Shropshire Star’s Dragons’-Den-style competition.