AN independent pet care business based in the Cheddar area has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.

Friends for Pets, established in Shipham by Becca Wilson has been shortlisted for the 2024 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

The awards are often referred to as the 'Grammys of Entrepreneurship', and celebrate the achievements of the UK's most 'dynamic and innovative' businesses.

Friends for Pets founder Becca Wilson always wanted a career with animals, and completed an MSc in Animal Science specialising in Animal Behaviour & Welfare

She set up the business in 2008, and it quickly grew until it had around 85 pet carers a large area of the south west.

Becca decided to franchise the company so each area could be managed by a local resident who could keep the highest standards of pet care and allow a more controlled growth of the company.Becca Wilson, founder of Friends for Pets.Becca Wilson, founder of Friends for Pets. (Image: Supplied)

Each area has its own small, long-standing team of pet carers that Becca says 'become extended members of client’s families' due to the level of service provided.

"A few years on and we have developed an Award-Winning team of expert managers and pet carers who offer the highest standard of Pet Care that we can to local communities," she added.

“Friends for Pets based in the South West is recognised for its outstanding contributions to pet care.

"We are super proud to be shortlisted for such an amazing award.

"The Friends for Pets team are so dedicated to Friends for Pets, and all the pets that they look after, so I am thrilled to have this recognition for everyone’s hard work.”

Francesca James, Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, stated: “The calibre of entries this year is truly outstanding.

"These entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy, and their stories are a testament to the incredible resilience and creativity of the UK's business community.

"We are thrilled to recognise their achievements and support their continued growth.”

The awards ceremony will take place on Monday, November 18, at Grosvenor House in London, where winners for each category in each region will be announced.