Eighteen Shropshire businesses which have gone above and beyond to help the county through this year’s Covid-19 crisis have received a royal seal of approval for their efforts.

The British Chambers of Commerce launched a campaign to recognise the incredible work that UK businesses are doing, in the most challenging of years.

Shropshire Chamber of Commerce nominated the local businesses which starred in its Chamber Champion Awards earlier this year.

And 18 have now received official ‘UK Business Hero 2020’ accreditation – along with a letter of thanks from the royal family.

The organisations recognised include Wrekin View Primary School of Wellington, which won the overall Shropshire Chamber Champion prize, plus other education providers, Telford College, and Shrewsbury Colleges Group.

Also receiving the accolade are active partnership Energize Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, Shropshire Mind, Bridgnorth-based Good2Great, and county motor dealer Furrows.

There is also recognition for Wrekin Fruit and Veg Deliveries, Bluebird Care, Reclaim Tax, Shropshire Festivals, Xscape Now!, Shoothill, AMD Promotions, Aico of Oswestry, Madeley Cricket Club, Nick Jones Wealth Planning, and Telford butcher G.N. Badley and Sons.

In a letter to the Shropshire winners, HRH The Countess of Wessex says: “It has given me great pride to hear how businesses have gone the extra mile to help during this Coronavirus pandemic.

“It has been a particular pleasure to hear stories of how you have supported your local communities throughout the outbreak, and to see you nominated as a UK Business Hero by your local Chamber of Commerce.”

Mia Carter, Shropshire Chamber’s director of membership, said: “Our Chamber Champion Awards, which were live streamed this summer, were a fabulous reminder of the incredible support network we have in our county.

“All 18 of these Shropshire organisations were shortlisted as finalists, and can now proudly carry the UK Business Hero stamp – safe in the knowledge that they have received a royal seal of approval.”