A BURY businesswoman was 'energised' after receiving a top award at an industry ceremony.

Kelly Ivison, a director at Exchange Utility, based in Athenaeum House, Market Street, won the business person of the year award at the Energy Live Consultancy News (TELCA) awards.

The ceremony, held at the Honourable Artillery Gardens in London, was hosted by industry publication Energy Live.

Ms Ivison was recognised as a prominent and professional influence in the energy sector.

A company spokesman said: "Kelly has been a key driver in Exchange Utility’s growth and continues to aid it through her innovative and tactical approach to objectives.

"She was only promoted to the position of director at Exchange Utility in March 2016 and has since been a driving force behind our workforce expansion, new site establishment and culture maintenance.

"This TELCA award gives recognition to all of Kelly’s hard work at Exchange Utility and her huge achievements within the business.

"The improvements made to both culture and the way in which the business works has vastly enhanced processes and her drive will undoubtedly propel Exchange Utility to even bigger heights."

The company provides energy and utility savings advice for businesses, and moved to its site in the refurbished Athenaeum House in April creating 250 jobs.

It was established two years ago, and also employs 160 people at its original site in Heap Bridge.

When its new Bury base opened, Cllr Mike Connolly, then leader of Bury Council, said: “Having a strong and thriving local economy is crucial for Bury, and helping to create and maintain that is one of the council’s very top priorities.

“We warmly welcome Exchange Utility to Bury; they are an excellent business, firmly founded on family values. This move secures further employment opportunities in the local area, as well as increasing footfall in the town centre. We will continue to work with the team at Exchange Utility to ensure that their move is successful.”