Venus Awards shine a spotlight on hard-working businesswomen

HUNDREDS of women packed out The Pyramids last night to celebrate and reward local women in business.

The Venus Awards, which are sometimes dubbed the Working Women’s Oscars, were formed in 2009 to shine a spotlight on hard-working businesswomen.

Nominees Pam Bates, Shelley Jory and Erika Stylesplaceholder image
Nominees Pam Bates, Shelley Jory and Erika Styles

The event, which was sponsored by The News, returned to Portsmouth for the second time last night, with a glittering ceremony held at The Pyramids in Southsea.

More than 1,100 applications were received and awards were given out in 14 categories including ‘business mother’, ‘director of the year’ and ‘young entrepreneur’.

The night was presented by Shelley Jory-Leigh, a British powerboat champion who also runs Brides of Southampton.

Organiser Tara Howard said: ‘There were many applications, which were whittled down to about 40 finalists. Congratulations to everyone here tonight.’

A full list of winners and more pictures will be featured in Thursday’s News.

For more information, go to venusawards.co.uk

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