Claims Consortium, of Taunton, presented with Queen's Award by Annie Maw, Lord Lieutenant of Somerset

The ceremony was carried out by the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, the Queen’s representative in the county.

The presentation took place at the company’s annual staff and supplier awards evening on Friday, September 22.

It was also attended by Taunton Deane MP Rebecca Pow, the chairman of Somerset County Council, William Wallace, and other local dignitaries.

Mrs Maw said: “It was a real honour to present Claims Consortium Group with its Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

"I am extremely proud that a firm with such impressive achievements is based in the county of Somerset, and I look forward to seeing the company continue to thrive in future.”

The evening not only marked the firm’s Queen’s Award win, but the outstanding achievements made by staff and suppliers over the last 12 months, with 15 awards handed out in total.

Jeremy Hyams, Claims Consortium chief executive, said: “We have had some incredible achievements over the last few years, and winning a Queen’s Award for Enterprise has been the pinnacle of them all.

"It was an honour to officially receive our award in front of our guests, and to also celebrate the individual accolades of our team.”

Claims Consortium also supported local charities during the event – an additional 60 meals were catered for for Taunton Association for the Homeless and guests wore something red to show support for anti-violence charity Stand Against Violence.

Claims Consortium won its Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation earlier this year, one of around 100 companies in the UK to have received the coveted award.

The Queen’s Awards recognise businesses for their outstanding achievements in innovation, international trade and sustainable development, and are widely regarded as the highest official UK award for a British business.