Leading national plant nursery business Johnsons of Whixley has scooped best family-run business of the Year at its local Harrogate Advertiser Business awards 2016.

The company, run by three generations of the Richardson family, was awarded best family business at the glittering ceremony in Harrogate on Thursday 14 April.

Johnsons of Whixley was recognised by the judges as a vital component of the local economy with a clear division of responsibilities and focus, and a management structure that ensures fluid decision-making.

Currently 12 family members work at Johnsons of Whixley at its head office near Harrogate.

Graham Richardson, managing director at Johnsons of Whixley said: “We are delighted to receive best family business and to have been recognised amongst so many successful local businesses.

“As a family business we work well together and understand each other which drives results. The fact that we have three generations of the business working for us shows that we consider the older and younger market and the needs of all our customers. This also allows for diversity in the products and services we provide.

“We are proud that 30 out of 100 of our employees have been with the company for over 30 years and I believe this is down to our strong family values. Although we’re one of the largest commercial nursery businesses, we don’t forget our roots.”