A FAMILY run garden centre has won an award for the “significant contribution” it makes on the area.

Perrywood Tiptree and Sudbury is celebrating after winning the East and East Anglia Family Business of the Year award.

Perrywood garden centre began in the 1950s when Alan Bourne’s parents, Mary and Les bought the land next to Perry Wood in Tiptree and grew potatoes and pick-your-own strawberries.

Their son, Alan Bourne, started growing plants to sell and took over the business with his wife, Karin, in 1984.

Retail director Simon Bourne said:  "We are very proud of the heritage of our business, and the opportunity it has given to us both as a family and for our team and the wider community.

“This award is testament to the hard work our 200+ Perrywood team do every day to help us to be the best we can be.”

Paul Andrews, founder of Family Business United and organiser of the awards, said: “Family firms have a story to tell and make a significant contribution and they deserve to be celebrated too.

“Each year the awards discover amazing businesses doing incredible things and this year is no different.”