A BEAUTY therapist who received support from a youth charity is in the running to win a women’s business award.

Gemma Hodge, from Leigh, has made it to the top six of the Beauty Business category in the Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAs) with the winner announced on September 28 at Blackpool Winter Gardens.

The 26-year-old owns Philocalist, which is based inside store Reilly Denholm on Market Street.

Former Bedford High School pupil Gemma has completed various courses at The Image Centre in Leigh.

After working in a salon for eight years, she received support from young people’s charity The Prince’s Trust and launched her own business in July 2016.

She said: “I have wanted to be a beauty therapist since I left school and it is something I am incredibly passionate about.

“When I set up my own business I only had a wax pot but I worked hard and soon managed to get all my equipment.”

A record of entries were made across the 16 categories in this years EVAs as judges considered hundreds of businesswomen.

A mixture of public votes and an interview with business professionals are included in the judging process.

Gemma added: “I am thrilled to be part of the EVAs.

“Being your own boss can be extremely hard, but it has got to be the most rewarding and best decision I have ever made.

“I have also had the help of The Prince's Trust and the encouragement and love from my family and my friends along the way.”

To vote for Gemma visit enterprisevisionawards.co.uk from Monday, August 20.