A ROYAL Navy veteran-turned-artist has been named the Business Start-Up winner at The Armed Forces Community Awards 2026.

Emily Witcher, director of Emily Rose Fine Art and Framing, has just opened a workshop at St Owens Cross near Llangarron, and specialises in conservation-grade framing and bespoke military artwork, creating personalised pieces that commemorate careers, achievements and moments of significance for members of the Armed Forces community.

She was one of 12 winners from across the UK recognised at this year’s Armed Forces Community Awards, compered by BBC Radio 2 broadcaster Jeremy Vine from BBC Radio 2, celebrating achievement, resilience, leadership and service across the Armed Forces community.

Emily said that the idea for the business has its roots in her own naval service.

Whilst at sea, she created a memorial chart for a family following a burial at sea and recognised the power of meaningful, personalised artwork.

Her work has since been commissioned by Royal Navy ships, senior military figures and units across the Armed Forces.

Emily has grown her business rapidly, combining her military background with her creativity and craftsmanship to preserve the stories and memories of those who have served.

Emily said: “To have my little business recognised in this way in the Armed Forces Community Awards means more than I can put into words.

“Just over a year ago, I was stepping away from a 12-year career in the Royal Navy and taking the slightly terrifying leap into running Emily Rose full-time.

“Since then, it's been a whirlwind of framing, drawing, markets, exhibitions, very long days, a lot of learning.

“The awards ceremony was one of those moments where I got to stop for a second and realise quite how far it's come.

“I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has trusted me with their artwork, recommended me, supported the business, followed along, encouraged me and helped me get here.”