A Gloucestershire-based company is celebrating being named Rookie of the Year at ServiceMaster's annual business awards.

Run by ServiceMaster, who operate 300 franchisees under numerous brands, the awards celebrate the best of the best in the year.

One of those brands is TruGreen, a lawncare company whose Gloucestershire operation was set up by Mike Simmonds in February 2018.

Because his business has been running for less than two years, that allowed him to be entered into the Rookie of the Year award.

In the first year of operation, Mr Simmonds' business grew quickly and a loyal and expanding customer base were taking advantage of his services.

Working across both the residential and commercial market, TruGreen are aiming to continue growing while providing a first-class service, as well as a top-quality lawn.

Mr Simmonds said: "It feels great to win the award as it shows we are doing what we said we would. Being recognised by peers is always nice however the main award is the positive feedback we receive from our customers.

"The business came with a challenging start-up with the need to complete lawn care treatments, along with running and growing the business.

"Every day involves wearing the hat of a lawn care technician, along with completing sales, marketing, finance and administration duties. No day at TruGreen is the same but I love it.

"Running your own business means that life is busy so a supportive friends and family network is really important.

"My wife Sophie has been a big support, along with my two boys Charlie and Bertie who always put a smile on my face when things have been tough.

"I would also like to acknowledge and thank our customers for their support and engagement over the last 12 months.

TruGreen brand manager Steve Welch said: "Mike had a clear vision in what he set out to achieve in the first year of his TruGreen business, with clearly defined business and marketing plans, he has set a standard for others to follow."