Uppingham in Rutland is celebrating an even higher media profile than usual with statutory, business and voluntary sector representatives attracting awards in October.

This year's East Midlands Women's Awards saw Uppingham based County Cllr Lucy Stephenson, the only female member of Rutland County Council Cabinet and the Portfolio Holder for Transport, voted best market town leader for 2020.

In the same competition Uppingham businesswoman and media specialist Liz Clarke was voted top 2020 Female Senior Business Executive. Liz is also Deputy Town Mayor this year.

This year's Women's Awards, formerly the East Midlands Women's Awards (EMWA), was hosted online in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The celebration was hosted by BBC Radio Leicester presenters Rupal Rajani and Dave Andrews, and the Women's Awards founder, Sandra Pollock. This year's Headline Sponsor was Creative Directions, who were responsible for the Award's rebranding.

Sandra Pollock, Founder of the Women's Awards, said: "2020 will be a year that none of us will forget for many reasons. So, let us also ensure that we recognise and celebrate the good things that are happening across the East Midlands."

This year, the Awards received a total 105 nominations, another phenomenal number.

The overall award for Inspirational Female Leader of the Year 2020 was Albey Law-Smith, who was presented her award live at her home.

Sandra Pollock commented on why Albey Law-Smith had been chosen: "Excellent and inspiring leadership transcends today; it looks to create inner visions of a better tomorrow. I was impressed by the work and vision of [Albey] for all of these reasons and more."

A full list of winners can be found here.