AN Appleton mum who has been teaching baby massage and yoga to new parents since 2013 is in the running for a top accolade at the British Small Business Awards.

Susan Kemp, owner of Appleton Baby Massage, has been shortlisted as sole trader of the year by judges.

The event celebrates the UK's small business sector, while recognising the nation's best small companies.

Susan, a fully qualified baby massage and baby yoga instructor, believes the unique activities her firm offers are well worth a try for parents across the town who remain unsure.

She also delivers classes in children's centres and nurseries.

But it is not the first time she has been recognised for her work at Appleton Baby Massage.

In 2012 she won best business start-up from Work Biz Academy, facilitated by Warrington South MP David Mowat, following the completion of a business enterprise scheme and two years later she scooped the accolade for start-up business of the year at London's Mumandworking 2014 awards.

"I'm delighted to have been shortlisted, it gives me a huge sense of achievement," she said.

"I have built this business from scratch and my classes have been really popular with mums and dads.

"So much so parents are returning with their second babies. I offer a calming experience where parents learn new skills, with the chance to make new friends and chat over tea and homemade cakes.

"I love my job and its flexibility as it means I am around for my young daughter."

The awards are organised by smallbusiness.co.uk – a website publisher aimed at small firms.

Susan is through to the final stage of the sole trader of the year category after battling past tough competition and will attend a ceremony in London on October 20 to find out whether she has secured victory.