A STOCKBRIDGE businesswoman has been shortlisted as a finalist in the awards which celebrate female entrepreneurs.

Lucy Townsend who owns The Greyhound on the Test was announced as a contender in the 2019 Natwest everywoman Awards in the Athena category.

The category honours the most inspirational women running a business trading from six to nine years.

Lucy started her career as a pastry chef working with some of the finest Michelin starred chefs in the early 90s, including Marco Pierre White.

After spending time in Australia to work for prestigious Sydney-based hospitality group Merivale she decided to start her own, the Miller’s Collection, before taking time to start a family.

In 2012 she purchased The Greyhound and has overseen the launch of its outside catering company, Wilds, and more recently she has taken over the running of The Grosvenor Hotel, also in Stockbridge.

Speaking about the finalists, Maxine Benson MBE, co-founder at everywoman, said: “The Alison Rose Review cited the vital influence of role models and through this programme we have reached over 4,000 female entrepreneurs, sharing their stories and success to inspire others. Our work focuses on empowering women with professional opportunities and we must address the reasons why 60 per cent of women who have considered starting a business, did not because of a lack of confidence. This year’s finalists demonstrate the innovation that women already bring to entrepreneurship and we believe their stories will encourage others to follow suit.”

The winners will be announced on December 3 during a ceremony at Grosvenor House, London.