A BUSINESS owner has been honoured as one of the most influential female entrepreneurs under 35.

Sara Davies MBE, founder and creative director of Newton Aycliffe-based Crafter’s Companion is celebrating after being named one of Management Today’s 35 women under 35.

The entrepreneur set up Crafter’s Companion in 2005 from her university bedroom, while studying for a business degree at York University.

Mrs Davies company now exports to more than 40 different countries and employs almost 200 people worldwide.

She said: “As a woman in business I know how much hard work and determination it takes to succeed. Throughout my career I have endeavoured to support as many aspiring entrepreneurs as I possibly can, whether that’s through ongoing mentoring or occasional advice. It’s so important now, more than ever, that we support one another.

“Management Today has been celebrating the country’s best and brightest female entrepreneurs for 18 years now and I am both thrilled and honoured to be named among so many inspiring people.”

In 2016, the entrepreneur was awarded an MBE and has recently been named the youngest panellist to join Dragons’ Den.