Cafes, shops and a gym were among the Orpington businesses honoured at an awards bash yesterday.

Oscars weekend kicked off with the entirely unrelated Orpington’s Finest awards at the town’s village hall.

There was also news of the big Orpington cinema development. Chairman of Orpington 1st Business Improvement District (BID) Martin Price revealed the Odeon cinema was targeting an opening in time for the release of the new James Bond movie in October.

A new 61-room Premier Inn could also be open by next Spring, he said.

News Shopper:

Prizes were awarded in six categories, four of which were decided by a panel of judges put together by organisers Orpington 1st Business Improvement District (BID).

News Shopper sponsored the two categories voted for by the public – Favourite Business and the Community Award for a business or group that had made a big difference to the town.

Readers were able to get involved by voting through the paper and on our website.

Shopper’s managing director Gary Kendall was delighted to hand over the final prizes.

He said: “It is the 50th anniversary of News Shopper this year.

“I am delighted to say we started our business in Orpington. We had an office in the High Street here so we are wedded to the business community and the local community here.”

News Shopper:

KC's Nejimi Hassan with Newsquest South London's managing director Gary Kendall

KC’s Cafe in the High Street was voted Orpington’s favourite business based on the postal votes received.

A winner for the second year in a row, manager Nejmi Hassan said: “We are very chuffed.

“We have been in Orpington for a long time now. We work hard and the public have shown their appreciation, which is great.”

Anytime Fitness gym won the Favourite Business online vote.

Club manager Ayrton Lambird said: “I’m blown away a little bit.

“We have been open just under 10 months – we opened in April 2014 – so to win such an award, nominated by our customers and members, is a great achievement for us.”

News Shopper:

Anytime Fitness' Ayrton Lambird with Newsquest's Gary Kendall



THE WINNERS:

Hospitality and Catering: Primo Caffe

Most Environmentally Friendly: McDonald's

Retailer: Thornburrows

Service Sector: Compassion HomeCare

Favourite Business (postal): KC’s Cafe

Favourite Business (online): Anytime Fitness

News Shopper-sponsored Community Award: Sanctuary Café