A St Albans businessman has beaten hundreds of small business owners to be named Nectar Business Tradesperson of the Year 2013.

Judged by a panel of judges including star of BBC1’s The Apprentice Karren Brady, James Lanwarne, founder of Lanwarne Landscapes, won a £2,000 cash prize and 50,000 Nectar points.

He also received face-to-face business advice from Karren Brady, at the event which took place on September 4.

Karren Brady said: "I was impressed by James’ devotion to providing unique skills and services to his clients. His belief in life-long learning to improve and widen his skillset, coupled with his ambition for business growth, will take him far."

Mr Lanwarne said he was delighted.

He said: "The £2,000 prize money and 50,000 Nectar points will be put towards my next goal of opening a plant nursery and design centre, enabling my own supply of plants.

"Having the opportunity to get first-hand advice from Karren Brady was invaluable and I asked her for guidance on how I can win business in different market sectors."