An Essex baker specialising in gluten-free products has been named the UK’s most inspiring businesswoman.

Halstead baker Davina Steel, founder of Davina Steel Gluten Free, was given the honour by the national Best Business Women Awards last month.

Ms Steel, a scientist and nutritionist, founded the company after recovering from cancer – which left her intolerant to gluten and the artisan breads she had always enjoyed.

Since then, she has won various national awards for her breads – and has gone on to see her loaves and snacks stocked in major supermarkets and retailers across the UK.

Judges at the Best Business Women Awards said they were inspired by Ms Steel’s path to success, and the speed at which she launched the business from the ground up.

Receiving the award at a virtual ceremony, Ms Steel said it is a huge achievement.

She said: “There are so many inspiring women doing amazing things in business, so winning this award is a huge achievement.