The 18th annual Builders’ Merchants Awards was dominated by the women of the industry, with the majority of individual awards being won by women.

Angela Straker from Chandlers Building Supplies took home both Branch Manager of the Year and Independent Merchant Achiever of the Year, whilst Claire Digby from Digby stone received the Women in Merchanting award.

Trainee of the Year went to Danielle Jones from EH Smith, while National Merchant Achiever of the Year was awarded to Christina Dell from Keyline.

The event, which took place at the London Hilton on Park Lane, saw a total of 22 individuals and organisations crowned as leaders in the industry.

Mental health and diversity were recurring themes throughout the event, from the opening words by BMN editor Tim Wood, to the keynote speech by host Dame Kelly Holmes DBE, who shared inspirational annecdotes on her determination to achieve her goals, despite having to fight depression.

The ceremony itself ended with a short video showing Holmes’ Olympic victories, which elicited a strong response from the audience.

The highly coveted Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Mike Rigby from MRA Marketing, for his oustanding contribution to the Merchanting sector throughout his career.

The event raised £5,252 for CRASH and the Rainy Day Trust.

> Full list of the 2019 winners

> Picture of the event