A STANBURY resident was among the winners in an awards programme recognising the contribution of women in their workplace or community.

Lesley O’Brien, owner of transport company Freightlink Europe and transport consultancy Freight Train, was singled out at the Igniting Women Changemaker Awards.

She received the Diversity Driven SME Award, sponsored by Grant Thornton, for promoting

diversity and inclusion in the transport industry.

Only eight per cent of the industry’s workforce are women and only two per cent of HGV drivers are women.

In 2015 Mrs O’Brien, a Road Haulage Association (RHA) board member, approached the board with a proposal for a campaign to encourage and mentor women in transport to reach their full potential. In 2016 “She’s RHA” was formed to create a network of female role models.

Mrs O’Brien said: “I’m delighted to receive this accolade and to be part of Inspiring Women Changemakers. Since the launch of She’s RHA it has become apparent women are not the only group under represented in our industry.

“If we’re to address the skills shortage we need to reflect the society in which we live.

“She’s RHA’s not only supports women, but promotes inclusion in the workplace. Without this we cannot attract and retain a diverse workforce.”