OVER the last couple of years, businesses both big and small have had to weather a swirling storm of uncertainty inflicted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Sadly, with dwindling income and mounting bills, not all of them managed to make it out the other side entirely unscathed, and many companies didn’t make it out at all.

Closer to home, in Colchester, where independent businesses usually thrive, the situation was just as stark and the future equally as bleak.

Thankfully, however, better times finally seem to be on the horizon, so now seems as fitting as ever to celebrate the likes of the town’s small shops and quirky cafes.

And In Colchester, the sub-brand of Our Colchester Business Improvement District, has set out to do just that with this year’s Colchester Town Centre Business Awards.

The winners will be announced during a ceremony held in May but here are all the fantastic businesses in the running for Best Independent of the Year.

Café Med, Trinity Street

Gemstone Mortgages, North Hill

Made and Found, Scheregate

Top Job, Church Street

Red Lion Books, High Street

Glow Hair and Beauty, Priory Street

Bill and Bert’s, Sir Isaac’s Walk

Sir Isaac’s Artisan Coffee, Sir Isaac’s Walk

Blue Sky Printing, Sir Isaac’s Walk

Wildflower, Sir Isaac’s Walk

To find out more and to cast your vote visit incolchester.co.uk/awards/independent-of-the-year