A CARE business described by judges as a shining example in a heavily criticised industry was named this year's Small Business of the Year.

Home Instead Senior Care was launched in York six years ago, and now provides home help to 90 people as it works to address challenges presented by an ageing population.

The Clifton Moor-based business employs a team of 70 to provide companionship, home help and personal care to clients and support families who don’t want to put their loved ones into a care home.

The business was founded as part of the Home Instead franchise in 2009 by husband and wife team Luke Norbury and Ann-Marie Roche.

The judges said they were impressed with the concept realisation at Home Instead Senior Care and the vision of owner Mr Norbury, who has ensured all 70 of his staff has bought into the company ethos.

Describing the services offered by the business as "a real benefit to the wider community", the judges praised Home Instead for being a shining example in a sector that has come in for considerable criticism in recent time.

Receiving the award, Mr Norbury said: "It's really important for me to acknowledge the people that are going out and seeing clients, and giving them care. They are the ones that have won this award for us, and they are the ones that make the difference to our customers.

"When I started our Home Instead Senior Care in 2009 it was amazing what was accepted in the care sector and the standard.

"It's really nice to be acknowledged as providing a quality service, and a service that people value."