A SUCCESSFUL business has been shortlisted for an industry award.

The Secret Hamper, based on Beckingham Business Park in Tolleshunt Major, has been shortlisted for the Heart of Gold award at this year's Small Awards.

The business was founded in 2016 by Nigel Richardson after he was inspired by a Co-op Christmas advert for an extensive hamper range.

The business has been chosen as one of eight finalists for the award which recognises small businesses and their impact on their communities.

Gazette: Business owner: Nigel RichardsonBusiness owner: Nigel Richardson (Image: Nigel Richardson)

Mr Richardson said: "Since launching Secret Hamper we have raised in excess of £10,000 for local charities.

“We have also supported and championed more than 40 fellow local Essex businesses by including and promoting their amazing products in our Essex hamper ranges.

“With our not for profit #ThankYouNHS hamper initiative, we delivered more than 750 hampers to ten hospitals UK wide with in excess of 40,000 locally sourced treats being shared amongst tens of thousands of NHS staff, helping to raise morale and show those that care for others we care.”

He added: "Being shortlisted for the Heart Of Gold award is very humbling and is recognition of the power of the positive impact an act of kindness can have on someone else’s life.

Gazette: Hamper packing: staff at Harrogate District HospitalHamper packing: staff at Harrogate District Hospital (Image: Nigel Richardson)

"This couldn’t have come at a better time for Secret Hamper as we relaunch our #ThankYouNHS campaign to celebrate our NHS’s 75th anniversary this year.”

Michelle Ovens, founder of Small Business Britain which organises the awards, said: “The Small Awards is all about celebrating the incredible small business owners who are at the heart of the economy and communities.

“They are an opportunity to recognise and applaud the passion and tenacity of the nation’s small firms, particularly during such turbulent times.

“Secret Hamper should be incredibly proud of being shortlisted for this award and we can’t wait to celebrate with them in May.”

The winner will be announced at an awards night at St Mary’s Church in London on Thursday, May 18.