A CHEESEMAKER has been crowned North-East Businesswoman of the Year for Best New Business 2017.
Allison Raper, who runs the Teesdale Cheesemakers with her husband Jonathan, received the accolade at a glittering award ceremony for the WIN - Woman Into the Network awards in Gateshead, on Friday night.
Mrs Raper, of Rokeby, near Barnard Castle, said she was still reeling with joy especially considering the couple have only been running the business since last year and she never knew how to make cheese beforehand.
The 52-year-old, who said she regretted not applying when she ran a previous business 15 years ago, said: "When they called my name I burst into tears.
"It wasn't just the last 20 months of long hours, grit and determination required to set up and establish a new business, it was the realisation of a 15-year dream.
"One I had almost forgotten about. Almost."
Judges said the couple's brand had the potential to go national and Mrs Raper had showed energy, passion and a determination to succeed.
Mrs Raper can now add the title to a long list of accolades including a winner of the Yorkshire Show and finalist at The Great British Cheese Awards .
To find out more visit teesdalecheesemakers.co.uk or call 01833-627732.
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