The Fun Experts return to the Red Rose Awards

The Red Rose Awards are always special to us.

This year, James Sandwell - our very own Director of Fun – returns to the 2026 Red Rose Awards, not as a finalist, not as a winner… but as a judge.

And honestly? That means something.

From Finalists to Winners… to Judges

Not for the first time, James has had the pleasure of judging hard working finalists at recent years of the Lancashire Business Views prestigious awards ceremony.

And we know first-hand what the Red Rose Awards represent.

Over the years, The Fun Experts have proudly been recognised as:

• Service Business of the Year
• Resilience Award winners
• Business of the Year
• Employer of the Year

We’ve sat nervously at the tables. We’ve felt that drumroll moment. We've felt that moment when your name isn't called.

And...

We’ve walked to the stage!

We’ve experienced what it feels like to drive home holding the actual Red Rose Award in our hands.

It’s not just a trophy.

It’s validation. It’s recognition for your team. It’s proof that the hard work, the long days and the bold decisions mattered.

So when James steps into the judging room this year, he does so with genuine empathy for every business entering. He understands the stories behind the entries, the challenges faced, the risks taken and the resilience required to grow a business in Lancashire.

Having built, scaled and led a multi-award-winning service business, he brings real-world insight into what excellence looks like in practice – not just on paper.

Giving Back to the Lancashire Business Community

The Red Rose Awards celebrate the very best of Lancashire business. They shine a spotlight on innovation, leadership, resilience and impact across the county.

Being invited back to judge two categories is something we’re incredibly proud of. It feels like coming full circle.

We’ve benefited from the platform, the recognition and the connections the Red Rose Awards create. Now, it’s our opportunity to give back — to support and champion other ambitious businesses striving to make their mark.

And Then… We Bring the Party

Of course, judging isn’t the only way we’re involved.

We’re also the proud sponsor of the After Event Party Entertainment - because once the awards are handed out, it’s time to celebrate properly.

In previous years, we’ve kept guests entertained with:

• Our immersive 360 Video Booth
• The ever-competitive Roll a Ball
• Interactive experiences that get people off their chairs and into the fun

The Red Rose Awards are about recognition; they’re also about connection. The after party is where conversations flow, new partnerships spark and teams finally relax after months of anticipation.

And that’s where we do what we do best.

Why It Matters

For us, the Red Rose Awards aren’t just another date in the calendar.

They represent:

• Ambition
• Growth
• Resilience
• Community

They celebrate the businesses that keep Lancashire thriving.

To return as both a judge and a sponsor is an honour. To have once stood on that stage ourselves makes it even more meaningful.

So to every business entering this year: we see you. We know what this moment represents. And we can’t wait to celebrate your success and then party with you afterwards.

See you at the Red Rose Awards 2026.