BECHTLE'S managing director James Napp couldn’t believe his luck when he was named as the business person of the year at the Wiltshire Business Awards.

Mr Napp couldn't stop smiling as he was announced as the winner of the award, sponsored by RSM, over runners-up Stephen Trowbridge from First City Nursing and Sam Gooding from Gooding Accounts.

"I didn't put myself forward for this, as that felt wrong, but my colleague Sasha is responsible for all of this.

"There are a lot of talented people in this room and you all need to have a lot of courage, bravery and guts to run a business, so it is a huge honour to be named as the Business Person of the Year."

The managing director also paid tribute to his wife and his dedicated and passionate staff in his acceptance speech.

First City Nursing Services's Stephen Trowbridge said he was delighted to make the top three, while Sam Gooding from Gooding Accountants said he had a case of deja vu.

"I came third last year too, so I already know how it feels," he joked. "It is brilliant though to be named in the top three out of all those names.

"There are some massive businesses on there, so it is nice to be recognised."