All the winners from the 2026 Make Your Mark Awards.
MAKE YOURMurtek
Hundreds of business leaders gathered to celebrate another year of success, innovation and achievement at the 2026 Make Your Mark Awards, with Murtek taking home the evening’ s top honour.
The awards, held at Hardwick Hall and organised by Resolution Media and Publishing on behalf of the Aycliffe Business Park Community, once again showcased the strength, diversity and resilience of businesses operating across Aycliffe Business Park. Sponsored by Husqvarna UK, the event recognised outstanding companies, organisations and individuals across a range of categories, highlighting excellence in manufacturing, engineering, training, community engagement, leadership and entrepreneurship.
The biggest award of the night, Company of the Year, went to Murtek, which was selected ahead of fellow finalists SCH Site Services and Digital Edge.
The victory capped another successful year for the rapidly growing business and reflected its continued contribution to the business park and wider regional economy.
One of the most warmly received moments of the evening came when respected crowned Company of the Year at 2026 Make Your Mark Awards
MARK 2026
businessman John Elliott MBE was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to business and the local community over many years.
Elsewhere, Tracy Fee, founder of Hiyed, was named Businessperson of the Year after another remarkable year supporting young people and businesses across the region.
Ian Nelson, of NC Group, and Kathryn Altringham, of Aycliffe Engineering, were also recognised as finalists in a highly competitive category.
There was further success for Hiyed, which won the Inspiring Futures Award, while Tbox Tech enjoyed a memorable evening by securing both the Engineering & Manufacturing Award and the Small Business of the Year title.
GEM Partnership was named Service Business of the Year, while Modern Façade Solutions celebrated success after winning the Newcomer of the Year category.
Pauline Chambers, from Lifeline
Tbox Tech founder Jon Elwell celebrated a double win.
Community Action, received the Role Model of the Year Award in recognition of her commitment to supporting others and making a difference within the community.
The Apprentice of the Year accolade went to James Graham of 3M, whose training provider is NC Group, while Palram secured the Good Neighbour Award for its positive contribution to the local community.
12 | Aycliffe Business