Local business recognised for exemplary sustainability, community connection and collaboration

Surrey Hills Enterprises is delighted to announce Lavender Catering as the recipient of the prestigious Gold Trademark Award for 2024. The announcement was made at last week’s highly successful Summer Gala event at the Voco Lythe Hill Hotel, a glittering evening that brought together members and partners of Surrey Hills Enterprises to celebrate excellence in sustainability, collaboration, and community engagement.

Melanie Williams, founder of Lavender Catering, has been a shining example of what it means to be an active and dedicated member of Surrey Hills Enterprises. Lavender Catering, is renowned for its commitment to local producers and sustainable practices. The ‘25 Mile Radius Challenge,’ an initiative that focuses on sourcing produce within a 25-mile range of their Surrey Hills kitchen, underscores her dedication to supporting local suppliers. Melanie’s comprehensive sustainability policy, including zero food wastage and the use of sustainable and reusable products, has set a benchmark for other businesses to follow.

In addition to her business acumen, Melanie has demonstrated unwavering support for the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she cooked thousands of meals for NHS staff, showcasing her commitment to helping others during challenging times. Her active engagement in royal visits and recent work with the Harry Edwards Foundation further highlight her invaluable contributions to Surrey Hills.

Melanie’s willingness to share her expertise and mentor other members, combined with her efforts to foster a collaborative spirit among local businesses, has been instrumental in promoting mutual growth and a sense of community within Surrey Hills Enterprises.

The Summer Gala also marked a new chapter for Surrey Hills Enterprises with the introduction of Maggie Howell as the new CEO. Maggie brings a new energy and drive to the organisation, focused on continuing to promote sustainability, support local businesses, and enhance community engagement. Under her leadership, Surrey Hills Enterprises is poised to reach new heights, building on the strong foundation laid by Maggie’s predecessor, Wendy Varcoe and of course its members.

Maggie Howell, CEO of Surrey Hills Enterprises, stated, “The coveted Gold Award is bestowed upon those Surrey Hills Enterprises members that have made a significant impact in relation to environmental sustainability, the inspiration they provide to others and their work to connect with the local community and other members.

Melanie’s dedication to sustainability, her active community involvement, and her exemplary business practices make her a truly deserving winner of this year’s Gold Trademark Award. Her contributions embody the values and mission of Surrey Hills Enterprises. We are thrilled to have her as part of our community and look forward to continuing to support her and other members in their endeavours.”

The Summer Gala was a resounding success, bringing together members and partners to celebrate and recognise the outstanding achievements within the Surrey Hills community. The event was a testament to the vibrant and collaborative spirit that defines Surrey Hills Enterprises.

Kia Mooney, Vicky Goode, Maggie Howell, Patrick Haveron, Katherine Daire – Photo by Alex Orrow

Many thanks to Alex Orrow for the photos and the Voco Lythe Hill Hotel for hosting the event