Celebration of Cumbria’s Energy Sector Shines at BECBC Awards 2025
Cumbria’s thriving energy supply chain was in the spotlight as hundreds gathered for the BECBC Awards 2025, an evening dedicated to honouring excellence, innovation and partnership across the region. Sponsored by Sellafield Ltd, the event highlighted the ingenuity and community spirit that continue to drive the sector forward.
This year’s ceremony carried an added layer of celebration with a chocolate-inspired theme, marking the retirement of John Grainger, BECBC’s long-standing Executive Director. In tribute to his legacy, organisers unveiled the inaugural John Grainger Lifetime Achievement Award, created to recognise individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped the industry.
Emma Jayne Gooch, chair of BECBC’s Nuclear Sector Group, became the first recipient of the new honour, reflecting her longstanding dedication to both the sector and the wider community.
Head Judge John Grainger added: “When considering the very first recipient of the John Granger Award, there was never any doubt in my mind who deserved this recognition. From the outset, Emma-Jayne stood out as the clear and outstanding candidate. No one else came close to matching the breadth of her achievements, her dedication to her work and her commitment to her colleagues and the broader business cluster.”
Emma-Jayne said: “It was a real shock to win this award, I have been involved with business cluster for 17 years now. I am just passionate about the supply chain, passionate about bringing opportunities to them and helping them work collaboratively together.”
Forth claimed the Social Value Award after demonstrating exceptional community impact, announcing that they had fulfilled their £25,000 fundraising commitment to Goodlives. The pledge was made at last year’s awards, where they received high commendation in the same category. Their milestone coincided with their 25th anniversary year, which was further crowned by winning the prestigious Business of the Year Award.
Graham Cartwright, Managing Director of Forth, said: “Social value isn’t a tick-box for us – it’s who we are. When we pledged £25,000 for Goodlives at last year’s awards, it wasn’t just a target, it was a commitment to our community. To stand here tonight, in our 25th anniversary year, and say we’ve achieved that is a proud moment for every member of our team. Winning Social Value and Business of the Year shows that doing the right thing and growing a successful business go hand in hand.”
Headline sponsor Sellafield Ltd praised the calibre of the finalists and award recipients. James Riddick, Sellafield Ltd Chief Supply Chain Officer, said: “Congratulations to all the winners and everyone nominated on what was a fabulous night of celebration for our fantastic local supply chain.
“Our success at Sellafield relies on having a diverse and dynamic local supply chain supporting us. These awards proved once again that we have that in abundance here in Cumbria. Well done to everyone at BECBC for organising such a successful event.”
Reflecting on the evening, BECBC Chief Executive Dianne Richardson added: “What an incredible evening! It was fantastic to see so many members of our energy supply chain come together to celebrate the achievements that make Cumbria such a powerhouse of innovation and collaboration. Every winner truly deserved their recognition, and the atmosphere in the room was electric – from the chocolate-themed surprises to the heartfelt tributes to John Grainger. We’re proud to have raised thousands for the Great North Air Ambulance Service, a charity close to our hearts. Nights like this remind us why our community is so special. Let’s do it all again next year – bigger and better!”