Prestigious award for Melton events business

The event management agency, which was founded by Gareth Bright in 2021, has been named as the Hospitality, Tourism & Events winner at the 2025 Midlands StartUp Awards.

Originally launched as a premium motorcycle tours business, the company pivoted following Gareth’s two serious motorcycle accidents.

In May 2022, Woodcote Events redefined its focus, becoming a full-service events agency delivering high-quality, bespoke events.

With a strong foundation in the automotive sector, the agency also works across a range of industries.

Led by Gareth and business partner, Jo Artherton-Bright, the team has earned the trust of major brands, including Ducati UK, Triumph Motorcycles, Royal Enfield, and BSA.

Reacting to his company’s latest award, Gareth said they were ‘incredibly proud’ and he commented: “This award is a testament to the resilience and adaptability that have shaped our journey.

"Thank you to our clients for believing in us and recognising the high standards we deliver - your trust means everything.

"And, of course, none of this would be possible without our brilliant team, whose dedication and creativity push us forward every day.”

Supported nationally by Airwallex, Join Talent, and V-Rum, the UK StartUp Awards were established to highlight the success of start-ups across ten UK nations and regions and to celebrate the achievements of entrepreneurs in all sectors of the economy.

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, creator of the awards, said: “Across the UK, a new generation of entrepreneurs is quietly reshaping our economy, one idea, one venture, one leap of faith at a time. While established firms may dominate headlines, it’s the start-ups that are driving meaningful change.

“You can feel that momentum in the Midlands, where entrepreneurial talent is flourishing.

"From transformative tech start-ups to bold creative enterprises and purpose-led ventures, these businesses are breathing new life into industries and communities alike.

“I’m delighted that “Woodcote Events has won their category at the awards and I’m looking forward to having them join the ‘best of the best’ from Midlands competing at the UK final later this year.”

Woodcote and all the other regional winners will now progress to the UK StartUp Awards final, taking place at Ideas Fest on September 11.