North East’s top businesswomen revealed

Eleven regional entrepreneurs were celebrated at the North East Business Woman of the Year Awards (WIN Awards), which took place at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead on October 27.

Nickie Gott, She’s Gott It Events, who organises the awards and is chair of the North East England Chamber of Commerce Women’s Advisory Group, said: “This is the 18th year of our awards and the standard of entries was even higher than ever. We have an outstanding range of winners who have shown such determination to succeed, with great results. These awards are a perfect opportunity to showcase their achievements as there is still a need for women to show the world what they can do in business, to inspire new female entrepreneurs.”

One of the winners on the night – which was attended by more than 300 people – was Allison Raper of Barnard Castle-based Teesdale Cheesemakers who won the NatWest Best New Business Award.

Picking up the accolade, she said: “I am speechless and overwhelmed with pleasure to have won. This seems like it is my time. Winning has re-inspired me with my brand and I feel like the sky is the limit. Watch this space!”

Joanna Feeley, of Trend Bible, won the Susan Dobson Memorial Award while the Newcastle High School for Girls Woman in STEM Award was awarded to Gill Rice, for her success with her Prudhoe-based company Tyne Valley Plastics.

Michaela Reaney of Newcastle business Gradvert picked up the Best Small Business Award, sponsored by Tees Valley Combined Authority, while further awards were given to Rachel Lumley and Kathryn Meadows, Katies Garden, (Best Practice), Sheridan Mordew, Shape up with Sher, (Rising Star Award), Lizzy Hodcroft, The Sweet Beet UK, (Young Entrepreneur of the Year), Lynsey Wilson, Virgin Money, (Leadership Award), Jemma Morland, EMG Solicitors, (One to Watch) and Janet Maitland, Janet Maitland Hair Excellence, (Inspire Me Award).