Perkins recognised as women's champion

Specsavers' co-founder Mary Perkins has received the Spirit of everywoman Award at the NatWest everywoman Awards to recognise Britain's most inspiring female business owners.

The London ceremony was hosted last week (December 7) by BBC presenter Fiona Bruce and over 300 women attended. Perkins was described as a champion of women in a male-dominated industry who, since qualifying in the 1960s when 3 per cent of qualified optometrists were female, has given nearly 300 female practitioners the opportunity to run their own businesses.

Specsavers said that a 'robust' career ladder offered training, coaching and mentoring, while the emphasis on personal service made the company suitable for women with the added benefit of financial and flexitime support. Perkins, a mother herself, was also praised for her maternity policy that encourages women to return to the work place.