Meet the Judges: Ramona Derbyshire & Kate Westbrook
As we count down to this year’s TBE Awards, we’re introducing the judges who will be reviewing entries and helping to spotlight the
most inspiring businesses across the South West.
Joining the panel for the first time is Ramona Derbyshire, Partner and Head of Business Growth at Thrings Solicitors, bringing a fresh perspective and a strong strategic lens to
the judging process.
She’s joined by Kate Westbrook, Partner at Thrings Solicitors, who returns as a judge for the third year running.
Thrings are proud to be the headline sponsor of the TBE Awards for the third consecutive year, and also sponsor of the Flying the Flag for the South West Award, a category that celebrates businesses successfully championing the region on a national or international stage.
We asked them about their involvement in the 2026 TBE Awards.
What attracted each of you to getting involved?
K: We have had the pleasure of collaborating with TBE on a range of initiatives over the years and it has been great to work with Anita and the team to champion businesses in our region. So, when this opportunity came along to find out about the amazing things businesses have been up to, I jumped at the chance.
R: Having seen how much Kate has enjoyed the experience in the first two years really gave me FOMO! I thoroughly enjoy getting to know businesses, how they tick and their aspirations for the future, so I had to get involved.
Thrings has been headline sponsor of the TBE Awards for the past three years. What makes the awards the right fit for the firm?
R: We are all about helping businesses thrive, enabling their growth and success, and we see TBE Awards as an important part of that – putting a spotlight on businesses as they continue to evolve and celebrating their accomplishments. It is a fantastic way to give back to the communities we work alongside and helps to inspire us for the future too!
Thrings also sponsors the Flying the Flag for the South West Award. What does this category represent to you, and why do these businesses deserve to be celebrated?
K: As a region, the South West really punches above its weight. We are home to many amazing businesses that have grown to household name status from simple beginnings, with more and more being created all the time.
This award is a special one because it helps recognise those businesses that are innovating and thriving in a way that helps put our region on the map, whether that is nationally or internationally. These are some of the most exciting stories we hear and it’s important we showcase them to help inspire others!
What makes the TBE Awards different from other awards schemes?
K: It comes down to three simple things: the community, the support and the integrity of the judging process. It’s about the awards doing what they are meant to, celebrate the best in our region’s business community and giving them a stage to shine.
R: The awards night also stands apart from other events. It is a very different atmosphere with no black tie or seating plans and instead an environment where people can explore and engage with plenty of good food and drink. Anita always seems to have new tricks up her sleeve.
What do you most enjoy about the judging process?
R: I really like hearing the stories behind the businesses, their drivers and the aspirations they have for the future. For me, that is what really brings the process to life and gives you more of an insight into who they are outside of the facts and figures.
Who would you love to see entering the awards this year? Are there any stories, sectors or types of businesses you’re especially keen to hear from?
K: We want to hear from everyone. The South West has such a diverse array of businesses across a wide range of sectors, each with a fantastic story to tell.
Finally, what would your top tip be for anyone thinking about entering but questioning whether they’re good enough?
K: Stop questioning yourself and get on with it! At the very least you will have been able to reflect on what you have achieved in the past 12 months – but you could also walk away with an amazing trophy.
R: Use the process to find what sets you apart from the crowd and tell it to us straight. If you think you are amazing at what you do, enter and tell us why!
To find out more about the awards and to enter visit: www.tbeawards.co.uk
To find out more about Thrings go to: www.thrings.com
