Uppal previously owned an Indian restaurant – Shimla Pinks – in Johnstone, Ayrshire in the late 1980's. He then launched two further restaurants, East India Company in Stirling and the Killermont Polo in Glasgow. He then sold up in 2001 and in the year 2003 he acquired the old Glassworks in Regency Wharf. Broad Street, Birmingham, launching Shimla Pinks upon the Midlands. Khalid Darr, chairman of the Carter Andersen (CA), organisers of The Lloyds TSB Jewel Awards, said: "Asian men and women throughout the regions are challenging the world of business, breaking new grounds in their professional careers and adding real value to the UK economy, this is what these awards set out to recognise." Eight coveted awards were announced on the night for Business & Commerce Excellence, Entrepreneur Excellence, Healthcare & Education Excellence, Professional Excellence, Public Service Excellence, Retail Food & Franchise Excellence. A new award also launched this year for the Future Leaders, as well as the Lifetime Achievement Jewel Award. The awards were held on 21 June at the NEC Hilton, Birmingham and were hosted by GMTV's Claire Nasir. They will be broadcasted on 12 July at 7.00pm on Star Plus. The East & West Restaurants Group also owns Jimmy Spice's World Buffet, Blue Mango, Indian Brasserie & Bar and NYC Bar & Lounge. Weblink: www.jewelawards.tv