A media entrepreneur has received this year’s prestigious Kent Invicta Award for his contribution to the county's economy.

Kent County Council paid tribute to Geoff Miles, the chairman of Maidstone Studios, which is where shows such as Take Me Out on ITV and Do The Right Thing on Channel 5 are made.

It handed him two cheques for £2,500 for his chosen charities – Blackthorn Trust and Kent Lung Awareness.

The entertainment veteran, with more than 40 years’ experience in the industry, was applauded for his “impeccable diplomatic and negotiation skills” and commitment to Kent business.

Mr Miles was also commended for his involvement in the Kent & Medway Economic Partnership (KMEP), Kent & Medway Business Advisory Board and The Shepway Business Forum; encouraging more businesses to move into the county and for resident entreprises to succeed.

KCC leader Paul Carter, at the full council meeting, said: “Geoff’s given enormous hours of service, sitting at endless meetings with difficult district leaders and county leaders, business representatives both at the local Kent level as well as being subjected to all meetings and bureaucracy that surrounds the south east.

“Geoff goes about his business quietly, effectively and efficiently, and really gets things done.

“I’m sure on behalf of all the county council and the business communities in Kent, we owe you an enormous thank you for all the time, energy and effort you put in in helping to support economy grow.”

In presenting the award, KCC chairman David Brazier, listed his achievements including his contribution to economic boards and organisations “where he provides a strong voice in attracting new investment into Kent, planning for the future and removing barriers to economic growth”.

Cllr Jeremy Kite praised Mr Miles’ “belief that Kent deserves better than other places, and a love for Kent”.

Accepting the award, Geoff Miles said: “It’s not because of me, it’s about ‘Team Kent’ – all of us working together to deliver a quality of thinking in Kent and Medway that is still growing and is working.

“Kent is a place I believe in. I think we can go from strength to strength.”