A KITCHEN designer is celebrating after her business was listed as a finalist in the upcoming Made in Bury Business Awards.

Amanda Dunlop opened Icon Kitchen Studio in Bolton Road, Bury, in October 2015.

The 50-year-old managing director has been named as a finalist in three categories at the awards, which champion Bury businesses.

Ms Dunlop, who has been in the kitchen industry for almost 20 years, said: "I'm very chuffed to have been named as a finalist in the Start up Business, Creative, and Property and Construction categories.

"It is my own business and it is nice to be recognised for doing something well.

"It has been very challenging but we are still here and we are proud to be here.

"If we do win, the accolade can really help people to trust us as a company as well as see that we are doing a good job."

Ms Dunlop, who lives with her long-term partner in Rochdale, receives support in the showroom from her two-year-old Shar Pei, Charlie, who attracted her first customer.

The businesswoman began her career designing and selling SieMatic kitchens where she progressed to become an area manager for the North of England, Scotland and the Channel Islands.

Work since has involved employment as a showroom manager at several companies, though she has also worked within the catering industry as a chef.

Ms Dunlop said she most enjoys the creative aspects to her business and giving kitchen design her personal touch.

She is proud to be one of only two firms featuring the high-end Italian brand Ernestomeda.

Icon Kitchen Studio has also been shortlisted for the Federation of Small Business Awards in two catergories, for which the winners will be announced on November 30.

The Made in Bury Business Awards take place on Thursday, November 23, at a black tie event held at the Longfield Suite, Prestwich, from 7pm.