Everyone at Babbacombe Theatre is delighted to congratulate our Managing Director, Colin Matthews, on receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for Contribution to Business at the 2026 Torbay Business Awards.
The award was presented during the gala ceremony held at the Riviera International Centre on Friday 5th June, recognising Colin’s outstanding contribution to business, tourism and entertainment across Torbay and the wider English Riviera over many decades.
The Torbay Business Awards celebrate the resilience, innovation and community impact of businesses throughout the region and have become one of the most respected events in the South Devon business calendar. The Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the evening’s most significant honours, recognising individuals whose dedication, leadership and commitment have made a lasting difference to the local economy and community.
For those who know Colin, this recognition will come as no surprise.
Throughout his career, Colin has been a passionate advocate for tourism and live entertainment in Torbay. Under his leadership, Babbacombe Theatre has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors, providing employment opportunities, supporting local suppliers and helping to strengthen the area’s reputation as one of the South West’s leading visitor destinations.
His commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment has seen generations of families return to the theatre year after year, while his wider contribution to the local business community has earned the respect of colleagues, partners and industry professionals alike.
Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting tribute to Colin’s dedication, vision and unwavering belief in the importance of tourism and the arts to the local economy.
On behalf of everyone at Babbacombe Theatre, we offer our heartfelt congratulations on this thoroughly deserved honour and thank him for the inspiration, leadership and passion he continues to bring to our business every day.
Congratulations Colin – a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
