HALF a dozen East Lothian companies are celebrating after clinching prizes at business awards.

Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce toasted the best businesses from throughout the two counties at its annual awards ceremony last week.

About 300 people attended the special dinner at The Brunton in Musselburgh, which saw 10 awards handed out.

Among the winners were Lothian Electric Machines (LEMAC), which is based in Haddington.

One of the largest employers in East Lothian, it has created a recycling centre to reuse waste streams and was awarded the Environmental Impact award.

Also celebrating on the night was Jack and Ivy, based on Dunbar High Street.

The hairdressing salon won the Employer of the Year prize after sending two stylists to New York earlier this year for razor-cutting training.

Musselburgh’s Hickory was crowned the SME (Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise) of the Year.

The catering and venue management company is the preferred partner to respected venues including the Assembly Rooms and the National Trust.

Also toasting success with good food were Tom Kitchin and his wife Michaela.

They took over the old Golf Inn in Gullane last year and created The Bonnie Badger.

The stylish hotel with pub, restaurant, rooms and garden was awarded the New Business award.

Meanwhile, the Brand family of East Fortune Farm won the Family Business prize.

The fourth-generation farmers have expanded their livestock and now sell eggs, home-cured bacon, pork sausages, lamb chops, steaks and roasts in their shop.

Finally, Miixer CIC picked up the Community Impact award as it continues to develop the legacy of Dunbar as Scotland’s first zero waste town in partnership with East Lothian Council.

Provost John McMillan, East Lothian Council’s spokesman for tourism and economic development, felt the awards highlighted the strength of business in the county.

He said: “I’m delighted that several East Lothian firms have been recognised at this year’s awards.

“It highlights the great strength and diversity of local businesses.

“Growing the local economy is one of our top priorities and the success of these companies highlights that we have a very strong foundation to build on.

“Congratulations to all of the East Lothian winners.”