Three local Sussex female business owners attend and win at National Business Awards

Three Sussex-based female business owners — Zoe Britton of Arracan Group, Harry Wallis of Harriet Wallis Marketing, and Melanie Essex of Manley Bookkeeping Services — were announced as official finalists at the Female Business Awards 2025, a UK-wide initiative celebrating the achievements of female-led small businesses.

All three businesses are based in East Sussex — Buxted, Crowborough, and Hailsham — making it a proud moment for the local business community to be so strongly represented at a national level.

The prestigious Female Business Awards gala celebration evening was held at the Victoria & Albert Marriott Hotel in Manchester on 14 November 2025. The awards recognise the success and contribution of female-led small businesses across the UK, with over 800 nominations received across 16 categories this year.

Zoe Britton, founder of Arracan Group, was confirmed as an official finalist in two categories:

• Networker of the Year and Services to the Local Communities

Melanie Essex, founder of Manley Bookkeeping Services, was confirmed as an official finalist in the Finance Business category.

Harry Wallis, founder of Harriet Wallis Marketing, not only reached finalist status but also returned to Sussex with a winning trophy, being crowned Coach, Mentor or Trainer of the Year.

Hazel Woodward, co-founder of the Female Business Awards, said:

“The judging panel evaluated each nominee on a range of factors, including marketing activity, client testimonials, business innovation, and the owner’s passion for their industry and clients. To be named a finalist demonstrates exceptional standards of service, dedication, and impact within their industry.”

Reflecting on the achievement, Zoe Britton said:

“Storm Claudia was not going to stop us from travelling to Manchester to cheerlead and support our fellow business owners. It was an absolute honour to be recognised as a finalist in two categories at the Female Business Awards 2025. Being recognised for our hard work, standing out in a crowded networking space, and creating an environment where businesses can grow, collaborate, and gain support means so much to us. Being a finalist represents a huge accomplishment for Arracan Group, and attending alongside fellow Sussex business owners made it even more special.”

Arracan Group provides comprehensive operational management support and social media marketing services, including social media training, ISO 9001 and 14001, Health & Safety, FORS, PAS43, risk assessments, QHSE, compliance, and marketing support. With a growing client base across Kent and Sussex, the company also runs several successful networking groups and continues to thrive into 2026.

Harry Wallis said:

“Being a finalist in a national awards programme was really quite special. To be recognised on such a large stage must mean I’m doing something right. The real privilege was being nominated by a wonderful member of my networking group. Winning was a complete shock, but the experience was incredible, and sharing it with fellow finalists and supporters from my network made it all the more meaningful.”

Harriet Wallis Marketing supports small to medium-sized businesses and start-ups, offering full ‘done-for-you’ marketing services alongside business coaching. As a qualified NLP Practitioner, Harriet incorporates mindset work into coaching sessions to support both business growth and personal development.

Melanie Essex said:

“Being named a finalist at the Female Business Awards in the Finance Business category has meant a great deal to me. As a sole trader who started my business just over a year ago, my journey has involved determination, long hours, and self-belief. To receive this recognition so early on feels incredibly rewarding — it validates the risks I took and the passion I bring to supporting my clients. It has given me renewed confidence, motivation, and pride in how far I’ve come.”

Manley Bookkeeping and Accountancy Services specialises in providing tailored bookkeeping support for small businesses and sole traders. The business focuses on making finances clear and accessible, helping owners understand their numbers, make informed decisions, and feel confident in the financial health of their business.

Reflecting on the event, Zoe Britton added:

“It was such an honour to be part of an incredible national event recognising the amazing businesses across the UK. Representing the South East was a real privilege. The atmosphere was wonderful, and the support was incredible. We were all truly honoured to be recognised as finalists.”

A special mention goes to Debbie of Debbie Hammond Designer Travel and Shakira of Flintwise Insurance Brokers Ltd, who accompanied the finalists to the awards. Congratulations are also extended to Rachael from Zaci Creations, another Sussex-based finalist.

Female Business Awards co-host Janine Friston, founder of the Female Business Network, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate this year’s finalists and winners, who have made such a positive impact on their clients and communities. The Female Business Awards aim to recognise female-led small businesses who often juggle multiple responsibilities and still create meaningful success. It’s inspiring to see their dedication and achievements acknowledged.”