Key figures from the small business, enterprise and skills sector in the UK gathered at the House of Lords this week to celebrate the very best in enterprise learning and skills.

The awards, hosted by the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE) and the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative (SFEDI), brought together representatives from small businesses, further and higher educational establishments, business organisations, corporates and government, to celebrate those individuals that are making a difference to the small business landscape through enterprise skills development, mentoring and championing.

There were 12 award winners at the event. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to JOHN TIMPSON CBE, Chairman of Timpson. John has a reputation for being a paternalistic employer has remained true to his vision to ensure the business remains wholly family owned and not answerable to shareholders.

Other high profile awards went to; Jason Holt, CEO of the Holts Group and the Government appointed Small Business Ambassador for Apprenticeships; Professor Andy Penaluna, Professor of Creative Entrepreneurship at the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, and Tan Sri Dato' Sri Paduka Dr Lim Kok Wing, Founder and President of Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.

Ruth Lowbridge, commented of all award winners on the day:

"Everyone being recognised today is contributing to the growth and sustainability of the small and micro business sector. We aim to inspire and support people to ensure that all small and micro businesses have the right enterprising skills to start, survive and thrive".

The winners of each award at the event were as follows:

Enterprise Learning Provider - The Manchester College
Enterprise Educator - Professor Andy Penaluna
Enterprising IOEE member - Hak Salih
Enterprising Learning Product - SureTrax
Enterprise Policy Influencer - Jason Holt, CEO Holts Group
IOEE Centre of Excellence - Manchester Metropolitan University
Get Started Award - The Chocolate Cottage
Enterprise Mentoring Champion - announced at the event
Enterprise Ambassador - Jackie Jenks
Enterprising Learner - Paul Dolman, nominated by TCHC
IOEE Lifetime Achievement Award - John Timpson CBE
IOEE International Lifetime Achievement - Tan Sri Lim Kok Wing