Showcasing the very best of the best – that is what the Citizen and Gloucestershire Echo Business Awards are all about.

And Prime Minister Gordon Brown, MP, sent a special message to those attending the event, wishing them every success and praising their efforts during the recent flood tragedy.

Here is his message in full:

"I want to send my best wishes and thanks to everybody gathered with you at the Gloucestershire Annual Business Awards.

"Having seen for myself the impact of the flooding in Gloucestershire, I am acutely aware of the huge disruption, damage and distress the pre-summer floods caused to local residents and businesses.

"What struck me most when I visited in July was how local people were pulling together, supported by a superb response from local public and emergency services and the community spirit of local businesses.

"I wanted to take this opportunity to offer my sincere thanks to the business community whose generosity has ensured that the appeal is well on the way to raising £1 million for the Gloucester Relief Fund. I am delighted that this year's Business Awards will acknowledge this contribution. We owe you all a huge debt of gratitude for a magnificent commitment to your community and county.

"Finally, I would like to record my thanks to the Gloucester Citizen for being such an invaluable source of news and information for residents at this difficult time.

"I am confident that this inspirational partnership between local business, local media, the emergency services and the people of Gloucestershire themselves, is the key to getting the community back on its feet."

Prime Minister Gordon Brown MP