In the sophisticated surroundings of Club Brass in the Art Deco ‘King of King Street’ building that now houses Hotel Gotham, the 24th annual Inspiring Women Awards were launched in style.

Among the guests were representatives from sponsors including Cheshire Life and Lancashire Life magazines, BBC Radio Manchester, Deloitte, Manchester Metropolitan University and members of the Inspiring Women Association. All were treated to winter spiced canapes and Bottega Prosecco while founder of the Awards, Cheshire businesswoman Jacqueline Hughes-Lundy, revealed the categories for the 2016 Awards.

Margaret Carter, CEO of Patchwork Pate, shared her fascinating life and business story. From adversity, Margaret built a multi-million pound business and her tale, peppered with escapades, made her talk a fascinating and entertaining one.

BBC Radio Manchester Managing Editor Kate Squire, announced the MC for the Awards lunch on 13th May 2016 would be Breakfast presenter Phil Trow, who will also be interviewing finalists.

Nominations for this year’s awards are now open and close on April 1st. Winners will be revealed only at the Awards Lunch on May 13th at The Midland Hotel, Manchester. Details of how to nominate a woman or to buy tickets for the event are available at www.inspiringawards.co.uk