A HOST of Penarth businesses have made it through to the final shortlist for the Cardiff Life Awards.

The awards, organised by Cardiff Life magazine, aim to support and recognise the achievements of independent businesses from Cardiff, Penarth and the Vale.

Hamptons, Bar 44, The Pilot, Washington Pharmacy, Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique and Foxy's Deli will all be sharing the limelight at the glittering awards ceremony at Cardiff City Hall on March 15.

The independent businesses have been nominated for a total of nine awards, with the owners of Hamptons leading the way with three and Bar 44 with two.

Hamptons, which was crowned Best Cafe in last year’s inaugural ceremony, has been nominated for Cafe/Coffee Shop again, Interiors and Retailer; Foxy’s Deli and Cafe has been nominated for Cafe/Coffee Shop; Bar 44 for Cocktail Bar and Restaurant; The Pilot for Gastropub; Washington Pharmacy for Health; and Rachel Burgess Bridal Boutique for Retailer.

An independent panel of judges will choose the winners, based on the nomination, supporting material, indications of success and what that company brings to the city of Cardiff.

Andy Bradshaw and Peter Knowles, the owners of Hamptons and the recently opened Shore on Penarth seafront, said they were thrilled to have so many of Penarth's great businesses alongside them as finalists in the recently announced accolades.

"The competition was vast yet again so obviously we're thrilled to be finalists in three categories, and delighted that Penarth is so well represented,” said Peter.

“With such a wealth of fabulous innovative indie businesses here in Penarth it's not a surprise that we'll be bumping into many of them at the awards ceremony again this year. Congratulations and our very best wishes to all finalists.”