Alison Langthorne and Vivienne Watson of Partners in Specialist Care celebrate their award with judge Alison Tate of TBI Solicitors

Vivienne Watson, operations director for Partners in Specialist Care, said: “We started in Team Valley but relocated because Hartlepool felt better-placed to serve the entire North East region. It's an ‘up-and-coming' area, there's a lively business community and we also have access to the calibre of staff we require.”

Partners in Specialist Care won the service category at the Hartlepool Business Awards earlier this month. The category was judged by a panel from TBI Solicitors, one of the Tees Valley's leading law firms, who were impressed with the quality of entries.

Alison Tate, partner with TBI, said: “All three finalists have an impressive commitment to their staff. Vivienne Watson and Alison Langthorne from Partners in Specialist Care have empowered their staff through ongoing training and joined them on the ‘front line' when needed. They have grown from 25 staff in 2006 to nearly 90 now, and will no doubt continue to grow and provide employment to many people from Hartlepool.

“The other finalists were also inspiring. J&B Recycling and Live Smart @ Home are both committed to expansion and have dedicated and involved workforces. As a company which has been established in Hartlepool since 1841, TBI Solicitors is proud to be at the heart of this vibrant business community. These companies are excellent ambassadors for Hartlepool throughout the North East and beyond.”