A businesswoman has been shortlisted in Retailer of the Year category at a national business awards.

Amanda Alcock, from Great Harwood has been named as a finalist at the Business Success Network awards.

Her online shop, Randompanda.co.uk, sells 'empowering' gifts to recognise team members and clients and display accessories such as stands and props.

The 39-year-old has over a decade of experience in the network marketing industry, but in January she decided to put all her efforts into Random Panda when The Body Shop at Home closed.

Amanda, who lives with her husband Adam and their daughter Emily, aged three.

She said said: “It was a challenging start to the year when I found out The Body Shop at Home was closing.

“I had been a self employed senior leader for over 10 years, and to lose this business I’d built up was a massive blow.

“Fortunately, last year I decided to set up an online shop for network marketers selling products that I found useful for my business. 

“I’d intended for it to be a sideline, but the universe had other plans. I have now put all my focus into growing Random Panda and the response so far has been overwhelming.

“To be nominated for a national award by one of my customers was amazing, but to be put through to the finals by a judging panel has blown my mind.

“I am up against much more established businesses, but I am delighted that Random Panda has been recognised in this way when it only launched a year ago.”

The award ceremony takes place in Birmingham on June 29.