JUDGES had a very tough task on their hands- narrowing down the excellent entries for the Dorset Echo Industry Awards to make a shortlist.

The celebration of the sparkling customer service, innovation and hard work of businesses in our readership area, will take place on July 7. The judging panel consisted of Dorset Echo editor Diarmuid MacDonagh, Andrew Prowse from the Society of Dorset Men, Steve Davies from WPBC and South Dorset MP Richard Drax.

Mr MacDonagh said: “These awards will celebrate the best of local industry. and We look forward to welcoming our finalists to the ceremony.”

Here are the top three in each category in alphabetical order.

Best Overall Retailer – Sponsor Fleetline Taxi

Chalbury Stores

Mole Country Stores

Woods Furniture

Best Customer Service Provider – Sponsor Dowsetts

Al Molo

Clover Property

Dorset Digital Solutions

Best Social Media Marketing – Sponsor Dorset Echo

Bluebird Coaches

Bridal Reloved

Khaleesi

Best Business Development or Innovative Idea – Sponsor WPCC

Figure Eight

Permanent makeup by Claire Louise

Rendezvous

Best New Business – Sponsor Basepoint

Dorset Health and Safety

Morrish and Banham

The Dorset Hideaway

Best Contribution to Local Tourism – Sponsor Pengillys

Great Dorset Steam fair

Monkey World

Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival

Best Product or Service – Sponsor New Image

Dream Doors Dorset

Jurassic Electric Bikes

The Living Tree

Best Community Engagement – Sponsor Active Mobility

Bluebird Care

Osprey Leisure Centre

Weymouth Pavilion

Best Business Engagement with Education – Sponsor Weymouth College

Cefas

Side by Side Training

Synergy Farm Health