Arranged by the new ‘Bay Living’ magazine in partnership with The Bay Radio, owned by CN Media Group, the awards recognise the contribution of businesses, charities and individuals from right across the Bay area.

The overall winners, chosen from hundreds of entries, were announced at the awards ceremony, attended by 350 guests and hosted by The Bay Radio's breakfast presenter, Danny Matthews, in the University’s Great Hall.

The University sponsored the event, alongside Electricity North West and United Utilities, as well as two of the award categories (The Bay Ambassador Award and The Best Use of Creativity Award) as part of its commitment to playing an active part in the local community and supporting the economic prosperity of the area.

Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University Professor Mark E. Smith said: “Lancaster University is delighted to host and support the brand new Bay Living Awards 2017.

"Developing our excellent and fruitful links with the local community and businesses is always high on our list of priorities and these awards provide us with the perfect way for us to recognise and celebrate all the good things happening in this very vibrant and diverse community.”

Managing Director of The Bay Radio Station Bill Johnston said: "The judging panel had a tough job, with more than 400 entries and nominations across the 24 categories.  

"The finalists were businesses and individuals across North Lancashire and South Cumbria who are the very best in their field.  

"This is a great opportunity for all of our winners to position themselves at the heart of the community, inspire their workforce, promote their values and civic identity and raise their brand and profile with our readers and listeners all at the same time." 

The evening featured live entertainment from popular local bands plus a silent auction to benefit local charities.

• The Bay Ambassador Award, which recognises the people who represent The Bay area in activities and events and make the area a better place to live and work, was won by David and Carla Brayshaw for their community contribution in Morecambe particularly their involvement in the Carnival. The award was presented by Lancaster University Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark E. Smith

• The Best Use of Creativity Award, which celebrates innovation and imagination across a range of sectors, was won by Cumbria Constabulary for their sexual exploitation awareness campaign. The award was presented by Professor Judith Mottram, of Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts at Lancaster University.