A CULLINGWORTH businesswoman has been shortlisted for a coveted accolade.

Sandra Corcoran, a director of Pennine Cycles, is a regional finalist in the annual Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards.

She is among six final contenders in the retail category.

"I am absolutely thrilled to be nominated and a finalist," she said.

"Forward Ladies was the first ladies' group I joined when I gave up my corporate career.

"It plays an important role, as a way to meet other like-minded ladies and learn about opportunities which can help you in business."

This year's awards, sponsored by HSBC, attracted a record number of entries.

Griselda Togobo, for Forward Ladies, said: "This has been a fantastic year for women – we continue to start, grow and run high-profile, successful companies.

"We have been delighted by the number, calibre and diversity of the applications received and look forward to celebrating their success."

The regional final takes place at Newcastle in October.

Winners will then appear before a judging interview panel ahead of national finals in Leeds on December 1.