MATCHING home and pet owners to sitters has earned a Brighton company success.

TrustedHousesitters has been named Growing Business of the Year: Smaller Company (turnover up to £10 million) at the annual Amazon Growing Business Awards.

It was crowned the winner of its category at a showpiece ceremony in London after competing against companies from across the UK for the top prize.

The Amazon Growing Business Awards, which celebrate 20 years this year, are the UK’s most established and respected recognition of SME and entrepreneurial success.

Along with TrustedHousesitters, 16 other businesses from across the country were recognised for their successes in a range of different categories.

Chief executive Tim Lyons said, “Since starting in 2010, TrustedHousesitters has grown massively and we’re very excited about the future.

“Picking up an Amazon Growing Business Award is a great feeling and a real indicator of our success as a growing company.

“Our ambition is to reach more and more pet lovers and travellers all over the world and recognition from industry leaders like Amazon, the CBI and Real Business is a big step in the right direction.

“The competition this year was really tough, so I’m delighted to be bringing this award back to our team in Brighton.”

Doug Gurr, UK country manager, Amazon, said: “A huge congratulations to all the winners and businesses highly commended at this year’s Amazon Growing Business Awards.

“Business like TrustedHousesitters are the lifeblood of the UK economy and a true inspiration to others so it’s great to see them recognised for their incredible entrepreneurship, creativity and innovative spirit at the awards.”

Praseeda Nair, editorial director, Real Business, said: “For more than two decades, the Growing Business Awards have spotted real raw talent and growth potential in businesses of all sizes and helped propel them into the limelight.

“This year is no exception. The winners are all true leaders in their own right, heading up true growth businesses with limitless potential.

This year’s winning businesses come from a range of industries including design, manufacturing, travel, healthcare and retail.

There were also awards for individual entrepreneurs who have impressed over the past 12 months. A new category, the Bridges Positive Impact Award, was added this year to celebrate businesses driving positive change for people and the planet.

This year’s winners join a prestigious list of businesses who have gone on to further successes.