A networking group set up to help address gender equality in the nuclear industry has won a major award.

Women in Nuclear Cumbria branch was named the winner of the innovation category in the Northern Power Women Awards 2019.

And Adrienne Kelbie, the patron of Women in Nuclear UK and chief executive of the Office for Nuclear Regulation, was named Transformational Leader.

Finalists from Cumbria included Prima Uno, Balfour Beatty’s Amanda McKay and Sally Fielding, of Sally’s Cottages.

Amanda was shortlisted for the Mentor of the Year award, Sally was nominated in the category for Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year and Prima Uno, in Cleator Moor, was a finalist in the Small Organisation award.

The Northern Power Women Awards celebrate the women and men working towards creating gender balance in organisations across the entire Northern Powerhouse.

Women in Nuclear Cumbria was set up last March, is shortlisted in the innovation category.

Claire Gallery-Strong, chairman, said: “I am overwhelmed and extremely proud of what our small but formidable team of volunteers has managed to achieve.

“From building a powerful network of businesses, individuals and advocates, providing training and mentoring, leading campaigns across the county to enhance visibility of role models, helping host the iconic suffrage flag and supporting the community when in need – we feel we have become an integral part of Cumbrian industry.”

When they were revealed as finalists, Trudy Harrison, Copeland MP, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Cumbria is being recognised at the Northern Power Women Awards.”