Ashby-based businesswoman Maria Peggs from Vispera has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Most Inspiring Businesswoman category at this year's Best Businesswomen Awards.

This latest accolade comes hot on the heels of Maria being awarded Inspiring Mentor of the Year at the national Forward Ladies Awards - as well as being a finalist in the Institute of Directors, Director of the Year Awards in the Agility and Resilience category. 

Vispra, with an office in Market Street, designs and delivers training within IT, core skills, leadership, and management

Maria said: "This is the second year that I've made the finals and it's always such a special feeling. 

"Attending the awards event a couple of years ago, I so enjoyed being in a room of positive and inspiring businesswomen who certainly knew how to have fun! 

"I'm very much looking forward to being in that room again and to speaking with as many incredible businesswomen as possible. 

"I know the competition will be fierce but bring it on! I'd like to wish all the finalists the very best of luck and see you in September!"

Debbie Gilbert, the organiser of The Best Businesswomen Awards, said: "This is the ninth year of these prestigious awards and despite the extremely difficult trading conditions businesses have faced over the past few years, these businesswomen have powered forwards. 

"Our judging panel, all business experts, were impressed by the quality of the entrants. 

"All our finalists are shining examples of being successful entrepreneurs who have proved their success to our judges."

The judging panel was impressed by the creativity, tenacity and excellent business acumen demonstrated in the selected finalists.

The Best Businesswomen Awards are designed to recognise the achievement of female entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries - all of whom are excelling in their chosen field.

The Awards Gala Dinner will be held at the Hilton Wembley on September 22 where the Gold Winners of each category will be announced.