HIGH-flyer Janet Entwistle has been pipped at the post in her bid to win the accolade as Britain's top businesswoman.

The former Clitheroe Royal Grammar School for Girls pupil was on a shortlist of five for the prestigious Veuve Clicquot Business Woman of the Year Award for 2003.

The high-flying executive, of Great Harwood, is the general manager of BT Fleet - the vehicle fleet management arm of British Telecom, which she has transformed into a national business with a £200 million turnover and a workforce of 720.

But at the awards ceremony at Claridges in London, Janet narrowly missed out on the top award, losing to shoes tycoon Linda Bennett.

"It was a fantastic night," said Janet, who will be better remembered among her old friends in East Lancashire under her maiden name Draper.

"I am sorry I didn't win for my friends and family around East Lancashire, but I was thrilled to have reached the final five.

"At that stage, everyone has been a worthy winner and it has been a very enjoyable experience."