Celebrating the people making Newton Abbot thrive

BUSINESSES, organisations and community champions from across Newton Abbot recently came together for an evening of celebration at the Newton Abbot Business & Community Awards 2026.

Held at Newton Abbot Rugby Club on Friday, September 11, the event was organised by the team at The Cwtch Hub, with the ceremony officiated by civil celebrant Julia Ward.

Twenty awards were presented during the evening, recognising the contribution of businesses, organisations and individuals across the town.

Organiser Kris said the awards celebrated a wide range of sectors, from independent businesses, cafés, restaurants and market traders to professional services, creativity, sustainability and the voluntary sector.

The event also recognised individuals who make a difference within the community, with awards including Community Hero and Above & Beyond.

‘The quality and number of nominations demonstrated just how much talent, passion and community spirit exists across the town’, said Kris. ‘The judges noted just how difficult it was to score the winners this year’.

Among this year’s winners were CJ’s Bar, which received the Best Newcomer award, while Head Honcho's was named Barber of the Year and The Filling Station took Takeaway of the Year.

Other winners included Albany Florists for Best Shopfront, That Woggle Guy for Market Trader of the Year and Helen Garnsworthy, who received the Creativity Award.

Orsino Lounge was named Best Restaurant, with Devon Renewables receiving the Sustainability Award. Our Pavilion won Café of the Year, while Devon County FA was named Business of the Year.

Community recognition went to Claire Pitkin, who was named Community Hero, while Be Happy at Home received the Above & Beyond Award.

Following the success of the 2026 event, organisers are now looking ahead to next year’s awards, which are due to take place on September 10, 2027, continuing the celebration of the people and organisations contributing to life in Newton Abbot.