Lancashire-based Salma Chaudry was named Businesswoman of the Year at this year’s British Muslim Awards.

She beat off stiff competition to clinch the accolade for her Halal Cosmetics company, which has proved a big success in the past year.

The event, held at the Salford City Stadium, was one of celebration, recognising a wide range of achievements which cover various aspects of society including business, charity, sport, arts and culture and much more.

Other winners on the night included Ason’s Solicitors, who were named Business of the Year. They beat Blackburn based Accrol and Euro Garages to the prize.

Other Lancashire finalists Tauheedul Islam Girls High School and Yusuf Seedat of the Islamiyah School were pipped to the post by Bradford-based Nadira Mirza, who won the Services to Education Award.

The Abdullah Quilliam Society won the Arts and Cultural Awareness award.

The Abdullah Quilliam Society (AQS) is a charity founded in 1998 by a small group of Liverpool Muslims who are looking to restore the site. The mosque was first opened by Sheikh Abdullah (William Henry) Quilliam, who in the 19th century helped to dispel myths and spread the word of Islam.

On accepting the award Mr Mohammed pointed out to the audience that his organisation had nothing to do with the more controversial Quilliam Foundation.

Speaking to Asian Image he said: “Wherever we go we have to point out that we have nothing to do with the Quilliam Foundation.

“People don't donate to us and some people avoid us altogether, because they think we are them.

Sultan Choudhury, managing director, IBB said, “IBB is honoured to present the British Muslim Awards again this year, as it begins celebrations for its own 10 year anniversary. “The awards celebrate the success of high calibre individuals, community groups and flourishing businesses, highlighting their incredible achievements. By showcasing such a range of achievements, tonight’s event serves to remind us that the Muslim community makes a commendable contribution to British life and has a lot to be proud of".

The awards were presented by Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh, of Hamilton Burns WS, and welcomed over 400 attendees.

Yasmin Mahmood, Operations Director for the event organisers, Oceanic Consulting, said “There are some truly inspirational individuals, businesses and organisations in all of the categories, and we would like to congratulate all of the finalists and winners who continuously thrive to excel, making worthy contenders".

As well as recognising the achievements of British Muslims at the forefront of their industries, the event will be raising money for The Well Foundation. Set up in 2008, The Well Foundation aims to raise money to build wells, install hand pumps and establish health and sanitation programmes to provide accessible clean water to the stricken regions of the world.