A FOOD and drink hero who has been crucial in building up the city’s reputation as a gastronomic hotspot has been named Outstanding Brightonian.

Nick Mosley was the worthy of the accolade at last night’s Brighton and Hove Business Awards – in association with The Argus.

As director of the Brighton and Hove Food Festival he has tirelessly promoted Sussex and the city’s gastronomic talent and produce – both locally and intentionally.

The non-profit festival, which stages multiple free events throughout the year, has been exported around the world via the unique International Chef Exchange initiative.

Other big winners last night included Posh Totty Designs which picked up three awards for Creative Industries, Fastest Growing Business, and the prestigious Judges Award for Business of the Year.

Jewellery maker Alice Cripps has built up the business to employ 35 people with a £2.5 million turnover over the last ten years.

Zero-waste restaurant-cafe-bakery Silo won New Kids on the Block award, while Brighton Dome and Brighton Festival were awarded Best Customer Service.

Mike Gilson, editor of The Argus and chairman of judging panel, said: “The winners demonstrated that combining passion and business nous with fun and individuality can be a real recipe for success.

“It is Brighton and Hove’s personality that puts it among the UK’s favourite cities, and that personality is reflected in our business community.

“While Brighton is renowned as being a creative tech-hub, our business scene is thriving with ever more successful companies. No doubt, our economy would not be booming without such business talent.”

The awards were sponsored by Allied Irish Bank, Aspect 8, Boxharry, Brighton and Hove City Cabs, Cardens Accountants, Classic Consulting, Gemini Print, Graves Jenkins, Martin Searle Solicitors, Robinson Low Francis, The B&H Tourism Alliance and Yelo Architects.

Media sponsors were Title Sussex, Juice 107.2FM and The Argus.