A SUCCESSFUL entrepreneur has been announced as the key note speaker at an annual celebration of Teesdale businesses and social enterprises.

Sara Davies, founder of Crafter’s Companion, in Newton Aycliffe, will speak at the glittering ceremony for the The Teesdale Business Awards on Wednesday, February 15.

Three organisations have already been shortlisted in each of the 12 categories and the winners will be announced at the ceremony which is intended to give recognition to Teesdale businesses or social enterprises, which have been successful in their own field of activity.

Business adviser, John Atkinson, and Teesdale businesswoman, Emma Hignett, will host the evening at The Witham, in Barnard Castle.

Ms Davies started her own business while studying at university aged 21 and, over the past decade, she has continued to expand her company with offices in the UK, Europe and the US and been awarded an MBE for services to the economy.

The last few tickets for the ceremony are on sale now priced £12 and can be bought from The Witham Box Office or online by visiting teesdalebusinessawards.co.uk.