THE Duke of Westminster and Princes Foods were the big winners at the Daily Post’s celebration of business success in Merseyside and Cheshire. Business reporter Alistair Houghton was there

See the picture gallery for the Daily Post’s Regional Business Awards

The runners-up were HIT (UK), formerly the Mersey Regional Drug Training and Information Centre, and Liverpool painting and building maintenance group George Jones.

The Mersey Partnership Investment of the Year Award was won by TJ Morris, which is set to create hundreds of new jobs through its expansion plans over the next five to 10 years. It is investing £35m in its Axis Business Park base, in Croxteth, plans to open 200 new stores, and expects its turnover to reach £1bn within 10 years.

The runners-up were Wirral’s Scantec Personnel and Liverpool engineering and environmental consultancy Royal Haskoning.

The Liverpool Chamber of Commerce International Trader of the Year award was won by Ventcroft, of Runcorn, which makes cable and electronics products for the fire and security markets. It has increased its export activity by 93% since 2005.

The runner-up was fellow Runcorn company Tall Security Print.

The Northwest Development Agency Science and Technology Business of the Year category was won by Chester-based GB Group. The company, which offers data products and services to household name clients across many market sectors, was recognised for its innovation and technological know-how.

The runner-up was Liverpool IT specialist Blue Fountain.

The John Moores University Cultural Engagement category was won by Rensburg Sheppard for its keen support of Merseyside cultural projects, including its principal partnership with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic.

The runners-up were Royal Liver and Royal Haskoning.