Ruby anniversary celebrations stepped up a notch for Michell Instruments Ltd last night when it recognised as “a gem amongst the East Cambridgeshire community” at the Ely Standard Business Awards.

The company, a worldwide leader in moisture and humidity solutions, won three awards at Friday’s event - including the Business of the Year accolade.

Michell also won the Employer of the Year award and the Medium Business of the Year awards after judges praised the long service record of employees - which averages 15 years - as well as its apprenticeship programme, profit growth and new products.

Formed in 1974 by Andrew Michell, in Cambridge, the company is now based on the Lancaster Way Business Park in Ely.

It is a worldwide leader in the field of moisture and humidity measurement solutions. It designs and manufactures transmitters, instruments and systems capable of measuring dew-point, humidity and oxygen in a vast range of industries.

Products are used in power generation, oil and gas, pharmaceutical, food processing and many more.

The award judges said of our winner: “This world-leading business is truly a gem amongst the East Cambridgeshire community.

“In 2007 the business relocated from Cambridge to purpose-built premises on the Lancaster Way Business Park, to specifically take advantage of all the benefits that this part of the world offers.

“Since then, the business has grown, prospered and must now be one of the biggest independent employers in the area.

“Its products, research and development operations, premises, systems, growth, ambitions and financials are all truly impressive.”

A capacity audience gathered at the Lady Chapel for this year’s awards, run in association with N&C Glass and supported by Advanced Aircraft Training, Cheffins, East Cambridgeshire District Council, Ely Chamber of Commerce, Greys of Ely, JDR Cables, Labour-tech Recruitment, LGC, Martin Jung & Co and Whiting & Partners.

Guests at the black tie event included finalists, business leaders, council dignitaries, award sponsors and our judging panel, which consisted of independent business leaders and award sponsors.

A champagne reception was followed by a three-course meal and the awards hosted Terry Gauci, the new presenter of Star FM’s Breakfast Show.

Mr Gauci told guests: “We would not have been able to put on these awards without the support of our sponsors. They deserve a lot of thanks.

“With their help we are able to reward best practice within East Cambridgeshire, as well as increasing public awareness of the professionalism and importance of our business community to the region.

“Our judges were extremely impressed with the quality of all the applications and want to thank everyone who took the time to enter.”

Another company to receive special recognition was start-up taxi company A2B Taxi Cabs, which won the Judges Award.

The Ely-based firm, launched by Jamie Edmumds, provides a quality transport service for every occasion.

The Judges Award is presented to a company or individual that didn’t win a category but the judges feel deserves special recognition.

Lead judge Peter Watts said: “Mr Edmunds’ vision for providing a quality transport service in and around Ely is taking shape, setting himself apart from his competitors.

“Positive customer feedback via social media combined with online booking service and loyalty benefits will see this business develop into a local success.”

• Thursday’s Ely Standard will include a special feature celebrating this year’s awards.