A KITCHEN fitter has tasted success after scooping a top award.

Tom Easter, of Halstead-based company T&N Developments, was crowned UK Kitchen Fitter of the Year at the 2022 On The Tools Awards.

Tom started his company with wife Nikita to create a one-stop shop for kitchen fitting, and now has seen huge success after seven years of growth despite the Covid pandemic.

Tom, a former student at Halstead’s Ramsey Academy, and Nikita started their business in 2015 before they got married.

Now the business has a team of 12 offering design, supply and kitchen fitting services.

Tom, who lives in Halstead, is also a retained firefighter in the town.

The awards ceremony was held in Birmingham and was hosted by Irish comedian Keith Farnan.

There were 400 guests in attendance at the gala dinner, including builders, tradespeople and leading construction brands.

Former DIY SOS presenter and Kitchen Kit ambassador Mark Millar presented the award to Tom.

A thrilled Tom said: “I’m really pleased to have this award for everyone in my team, not just me. Huge thanks to them because they helped make this happen.

“I’d also like to thank my wife, who set up the company with me.

“There’s been lots of ups and downs throughout the years with recessions and Covid, but we’ve stayed strong through it all.

“Lastly, thanks to everyone who nominated me and made this happen.”

On The Tools boss Lee Wilcox added: “The standard of Tom’s work blew the judges away - his hard work and skill resulting in beautifully considered, beautifully crafted end products.

“Tom has created a thriving company and we’re excited to see how he continues to develop.

“Celebrating and championing UK tradespeople is what On The Tools stands for.

“The industry and the people behind it have had a challenging couple of years, following the pandemic and turbulence that has continued to grip the country.

“The mental health impact for tradespeople and resilience demonstrated was evident in this year’s award winners’ stories.

“The awards are so important as they allow us to give recognition to the incredible people and businesses who contribute towards the success of UK construction.”