Awards hail achievements of women from the South West

CROWNE PLAZA PLAYS HOST TO SPECIAL EVENT

- KATIE TIMMS

WINNERS of the West Country Women Awards were announced at a sold-out glittering ceremony at the Crowne Plaza in Plymouth.

More than 320 guests, finalists and sponsors from all across the South West attended to celebrate winners across 16 categories.

The West Country Women Awards celebrate and recognise women all across the South West peninsula in all walks of life, from women in arts and culture, women in sport, combatting violence against women and girls to green business of the year and many more.

Hosts for the evening's inspiring celebrations were Alexis Bowater and Tess Stuber, co-founders of the West Country Women Awards.

Speaking after the event, TV presenter and women's campaigner Alexis said: "Tonight was a culmination of another year of recognition and celebration of thousands of amazing women across our region. We had almost 1,500 nominations this year across the four counties, up almost 50% on last year.

"These awards are not just about business, they are about everybody's business and we are continually reviewing and reflecting on the categories, bringing in more this year to reflect our lives both in and out of the office." The awards' charity of the year was Georgia's Voice, a winner from last year, which supports young women in Cornwall with their mental health. Guests raised more than £3,000 for the charity on the night.