An agency founder has won a top South West award in recognition of her leadership.

Karen Morledge, the Somerset-based founder and managing director of Morledge & Co., a marketing and PR company, was honoured at an awards night held at Bristol’s Harbour Hotel.

There, she claimed The Business Desk Leadership Award in the Sales and Marketing category.

The awards, established by The Business Desk, celebrates individuals who are role models in their organisations.

In addition to running her business just outside Weston-super-Mare, Ms Morledge serves on the Somerset Chamber of Commerce board.

She also leads 5-star rated 'PR Mastery for SMEs and Entrepreneurs' half-day workshops, helping hundreds manage their own public relations.

Ms Morledge said: "I was so surprised when they read out my name and I am absolutely thrilled with this recognition.

"I love what I do so it is a pleasure to go to work every day but to win an award for it is a real bonus."

She added: "It is so satisfying to help ambitious businesses put themselves on the map.

"Often, they are so busy doing what they do that they forget to tell everyone about it and that is where my team and I can help."

Weston Mercury: