Cumbrian woman named finalist in Enterprise Vision Awards

Mel Walmsley, company director of Lakes Sandwiches Ltd and Brandreth Foods Ltd, has been named a finalist in the family business category at the Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs).

The EVAs, held annually in Blackpool, is the UK’s 'largest' business awards dedicated solely to women, recognising the achievements of female entrepreneurs across the North West.

This year marks the 13th year of the awards.

Ms Walmsley’s journey to becoming a finalist began earlier in the year when she was nominated for the award and invited to submit an application.

Following a 'rigorous process', including a 20-minute interview consisting of a five-minute presentation and 15 minutes of questioning by a panel of judges, her entry was successful.

2024 finalist Mel Walmsley alongside husband Scott Walmsley, owners of Lakes Sandwiches and Brandreth Foods (Image: Steven Barber)

Ms Walmsley said: "I am thrilled to have been selected as a finalist.

"It’s a real honour to be recognised alongside so many inspiring women and to represent our family-run businesses, which have been built with dedication and a commitment to supporting local suppliers and our community."

Both of Ms Walmsley’s businesses, Lakes Sandwiches Ltd and Brandreth Foods Ltd, 'pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients and offering hand-crafted, high-quality food'.

Lakes Sandwiches provides 'fresh food-to-go solutions' for retailers as well as outside catering options for both corporate and private events, while Brandreth Foods focuses on 'nutritious, hand-made convenience meals', supporting farmers and food producers from the area.

Ms Walmsley’s success in the family business category is especially meaningful as she reflects on the values that have shaped both companies.

She said: "At the heart of our businesses is a deep-rooted commitment to the local community and to creating something that families can feel proud of – whether it's a freshly prepared sandwich or a nutritious, handmade meal."

Ms Walmsley isn’t the only Cumbrian finalist attending the awards, with six other businesswomen from the county also competing across various categories.

She said: "It’s fantastic to see so many women from Cumbria represented this year.

"It speaks volumes about the entrepreneurial spirit and talent in our county."

The awards night will bring together women from across the region, offering a platform to 'celebrate innovation, hard work, and success'.