CELIA Gaze’s transformation from a stressed-out NHS director to an award-winning entrepreneur has been something of a baptism of fire during a challenging economic climate.

Wellbeing Farm has been trading for just more than a year following the £700,000 conversion into meetings and events venue, catering for all types of businesses in one of the most beautiful parts of the Bolton area.

Ms Gaze’s determination is paying off with the business set to achieve profit status this year thanks to a significant increase in turnover.

She has worked tirelessly, creating the perfect corporate getaway, with meeting rooms, a farm-to-fork restaurant, an award-winning cookery schools and a wedding barn accommodating up to 150 people. In addition, Ms Gaze is keen to educate the public about sustainability and where food comes from.

The farm is a fully accredited green events venue, achieving one of the highest scoring Gold Events Venue grading from the Green Business Tourism Scheme in 2013.

"When I heard the news that I had reached the final three in the Bolton & Bury Business Awards for Business Person of the Year I was amazed,” said Ms Gaze.

“Setting up a new business is hard, but setting up a business from nothing in a rural area is really challenging and I know I’ve put a lot of work and effort into setting up The Wellbeing Farm, but to then be shortlisted for this award is incredible.

“I’m delighted that our combination of corporate social responsibility, quality food and sustainability seems to be on the right track for business growth”.