THERE was a rag to riches story for The National Self Build & Renovation Centre who claimed the Small Business of the Year award, after fighting back from the brink of collapse.

The company had been placed into administration in 2014 but was saved by six employees working for the firm and since then the business, which is based in Swindon, has gone from strength to strength offering help for those wanting to self-build, renovate or make home improvements.

Harvey Fremlin, managing director of the company, said: “People that know me know that I cry at anything and we’ve gone through a real journey.

“Just over three years ago we were shut out of our building because the previous operator went into administration.

“A small number of us, only six, tried to rescue the company and it’s a new company which formed in 2014 and has allowed us to re-engage with our customers.

“The company is employee owned, some of us have direct shares and there are only eleven of us and we’re all positive about what we do.

“This award really is for all the team because it’s a real team effort.

“It’s a real shock to get the award, I didn’t expect it because we were up against some great companies.”

Second place in the category went to Method Consulting LLP and third to Miles Window Systems.