Retail Entrepreneur of the Year

Lingerie expert Geraldine Hurd, owner of Betty and Belle in Altrincham, has been named as the Specsavers Everywoman Entrepreneur of the year. These prestigious awards recognise the achievements of dynamic women leading the way in the retail industry, and excelling in their careers.

Geraldine accepted the award at a glittering ceremony at London’s Savoy Hotel.  The event’s keynote speaker was Karren Brady, Lord Sugar’s right hand woman on The Apprentice.

Speaking about her win Geraldine said:  “I am over the moon to receive this award, it makes all the hard work seem worthwhile.  I hope it inspires more women with a real passion for retail  to take the leap into setting up their own business.  I would also like to thank all of my team, who have proven that good old fashioned service is still relevant in today’s world.”
Geraldine fought off stiff competition from across the UK, and was one of only three nominees from the North West to make it into the finals. 

Dame Mary Perkins MBE, founder of Specsavers commented:  “I congratulate all the winners in this year’s awards – to come this far shows commitment, resourcefulness and true retail flair – each is a shining example to all women in business.”

The Best Lingerie Shop in the UK - Betty and Belle !!

Betty and Belle is now officially recognised as being the Best Lingerie Shop in the UK.  In November 2011 we received the award for being the "Best Lingerie Shop for Excellence & Customer Service".  The award was presented by Stars Underlines Best Shop Awards.

This recognition is a great reward for all of my team at the shop, and the time we spend trying to help ladies look and feel their best.

Betty and Belle specialise in fitting women who are traditionally difficult to fit.  This includes big back, and big cup sizes as well as mastectomy bras, and more traditional areas such as bridal lingerie and maternity bras. 

Betty and Belle is owned by Geraldine Hurd, one of this country's most experienced bra fitters. Geraldine, a lingerie designer by background, first got interested in bra fitting having discussed the issue while working as a volunteer for Macmillan Cancer Support.  She still undertakes design projects specialising in apparel and print design.

Geraldine has been a talented artist and designer for all of her career.  She also has a Pet Portrait business called Paws in Pencil.