A WARRINGTON businesswoman has been crowned the best in the north west having won a regional award.

Joanne Hawkins was named the North West Virtual PA of the year at a black-tie awards dinner in Manchester: “It was such an honour to win this award.”

She added: “The awards recognise excellence in the industry which is what we always strive to achieve at EVPA.”

Joanne runs Executive VPA (EVPA), which is a network of more than 20 virtual assistants, that works with over 15 SME and corporate clients.

Founded in 2012, Hawkins saw there was a gap in the market to give support and guidance to business owners in the area, such as the Salford Reds Rugby League Club.

The award of Virtual PA of the year, celebrates companies like EVPA who help to drive and care for business.

Having made the shortlist of six, Hawkins was interviewed by a panel, who later determined her as the winner.

The committee that interviewed her said: “Joanne stood out for many reasons, such as describing her journey to build a successful business.

“Joanne’s great work enabled us to make an easier decision about awarding her with the North West VA of the year 2018.”