A South Lakes businesswoman has been announced as a finalist for the prestigious North West E3 Business Awards.

Alison Magee-Barker, who runs AJ Lakes Consultancy in Windermere, has been shortlisted for the Professional Business of the Year category, against firms from Manchester and Blackpool.

AJ Lakes was named as a finalist for its work in recognition for Alison’s work in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Alison works with businesses including hotels, B&Bs, attractions, and other businesses looking to diversify into this sector.

The judges said they were impressed that as a direct result of working with Alison, clients saw increased turnover, increased occupancy, a rise in direct bookings, higher average room rates and also spoke of more efficient working environment and better work-life balance.

Alison has worked in the industry for over 30 years and won an Enterprise Vision Award in 2018 during her just first year in business.

Alison said:“I have always loved my job, working with passionate businesspeople.

"I’m passionate about the sector. Seeing real results for my clients is where my job satisfaction comes from so I am always a bit bowled over by award recognition because I am already doing what I love. To receive external acknowledgement is always a great confidence boost but as long as my clients continue to be happy then whatever happens on the big night I’ll be happy too.”

The award will be presented at a ceremony on July 11, where St Mary’s Hospice in Ulverston will also find out if it has scooped the Charity of the Year title.

The E3 Awards were launched in 2013 to celebrate diversity and outstanding achievement.