Livingston based Atos Origin were presented with the Best Business Award 2009 by Carol Wright of Springfords who were the sponsors.  She said: “The quality of entries was extremely high and, despite the economic recession, it’s wonderful to be able to recognise that some companies are not only thriving – they are excelling in the current economic climate.”

Steve Langmead, Vice President - Scotland at Atos Origin, said: “It’s a real coup to win Best Business this year and we are absolutely delighted. We take pride in ensuring we have a balanced business that focuses on our customers, our people and the environment we work in. This award recognises the excellent commitment and focus of our team and I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate them all on this award and thank them for their efforts – we’re all looking forward to a long future in West Lothian.”

The award for High Growth and Innovation, sponsored by West Lothian Chamber of Commerce, went to local company, Fasteq Ltd, with StarNet Geomatics as the Highly Commended.

The Entrepreneur & Best Business Start-up Award, sponsored by West Lothian Council Business Gateway, is made to a successful business start-up company demonstrating entrepreneurial potential for long term business success and is a good role model for other start-up companies was presented by Councillor Martyn Day  to Platinum Recruitment Services  with AGR & Sons highly commended.

The Shona Sibbald Award for an outstanding woman in business went to Kim Walker of The Advance Consultancy.

The Enterprising School Award, sponsored by Russell Europe, and presented to a school which has demonstrated and delivered commitment to innovation, creativity and enterprise in the curriculum went to Seafield Primary School, with Balbardie Primary as highly commended.

Eric Harton of Russell Europe said:  “We are proud to be associated with this award for enterprise in schools and are delighted with the excellent high degree of commitment to enterprise which has been demonstrated by so many West Lothian schools.”

The charity draw raised over £1600 for Riding for Disabled at Oatridge College, with council leader Peter Johnston winning a makeover at Hush Hair and Beauty.