A ROMSEY business woman has scooped an award at a prestigious award ceremony held in Southampton.

Beverley Poole, who runs Aspire Business Clubs, won a gold award at the SO STAR awards which were held at the Harbour Hotel in Maritime Walk. The awards are a celebration of tourism, hospitality, retail and business within the city

Beverley set up Aspire Business Clubs to give business owners the opportunity to attend a professional peer-to-peer networking event, hear from specialist industry guest speakers and enjoy discussions around topical issues in business.

ABC also hosts a business breakfast for business delegates at City College in Southampton.

At the breakfast delegates enjoy prepared and served by the hospitality and events students.

Beverley said: “This unique experience is giving the City College students, some who have never experienced real work experience, the opportunity to manage client events. Delegates comment on the quality of the food and the excellent attention of the students.”

When asked about the award, Beverley said that she was “so surprised and shocked”.

She added: “It’s great as it means the value of business and education has been recognised. I am really proud.”

Annaliese Hughes, vice-chair of GO! Southampton, said: “The SO Awards attracted sponsors, partners and entries who all understand the hard work and dedication needed to maintain and develop Southampton as an exciting destination and many are well-known in the local community; people with

great connections who interact and trade with other like-minded businesses.”