Halstead-based bakery Davina Steel has been named New Business of the Year at The Business Excellence Awards Essex.

Davina Steel, which produces gluten-free items such as focaccia, snacks and afternoon tea products for foodservice and hospitality, received the award at a ceremony at the Five Lakes Resort, Maldon.

The Business Excellence Awards Essex aim to celebrate success, recognise achievement and highlight the innovative people and companies putting the region on the map.

“We are absolutely over the moon to win this prestigious award,” said Davina Steel, co-founder of the Davina Steel bakery.

“We’ve worked very hard to develop our business and create a range of products that are not only delicious, but also gluten-free.”