News Shopper: A female pest control business took first prize in the Beckenham Business Day ‘Best Dressed Stand’ competition yesterday (7 September).

Jackie Groundsell from Beckenham Business Association and Alex Vail from Beckenham Theatre presented the winning trophy to Vicki Sims from Lady Bug Pest Control on the stage at Beckenham Public Halls.

Highly commended was Creases laundry services on Beckenham Road.

It was the first time a business exhibition event of this kind has come to Beckenham and it is hoped that it will become an annual event for the Beckenham Business community.

“Vicki’s prize was so well deserved,” said Jackie Groundsell, local business owner and chair of Beckenham Business Association. “Vicki wore a ladybird costume and handed out bug-themed treats and sweets to delegates throughout the day.

"She made a massive effort and the stand looked great."

Lady Bug Pest Control is a female pest control company that offers pest control services in Beckenham and the surrounding areas.

“I’m thrilled to bits,” said business owner and single mum of two Vicki. “I’m so proud to win this prize, all the hard work and effort really paid off!

“It's not normally the way I do exhibitions but I like to be different and everyone I met said they would never forget me and that they’d use my services, which is great!

“The ladybird outfit was bought locally at fancydressme.com in Coney Hall, I’m a great believer in using local businesses.”

Beckenham Business Day was organised by Beckenham Business Association and supported by Bromley Council.Around 80 businesses attended. And thanks to sponsors StartUpLoans, entry was free for Beckenham Business Association Members.

“The day was buzzing,” said Beckenham Business Association member Marsha Berg from GradFinale Yearbooks. “People were making really meaningful contacts, and the talks were well received by a large appreciative audience.”

The next Beckenham Business Association event will be a breakfast meeting atBeckenham Theatre on Bromley Road on 21 September.

Beckenham Business Association events are free for Members and first-time visitors, or £10 each for returning non-members. Annual membership costs £25.