A businesswoman who has ensured her swimming school for youngsters not only stayed afloat during the pandemic but continued to grow, has been named Woman Franchisee of the Year in a prestigious awards.

Victoria Rowley owns children's swim school Puddle Ducks East Kent, North Kent and South East London. She hires swimming pools across the county to conduct lessons.

The youngest ever owner to run a Puddle Ducks franchise when she took over the area in 2015, at the age of 24, she has now seen her efforts rewarded by winning the title at the 2021 NatWest Encouraging Women into Franchising Awards.

It comes after swimming lessons were hit hard by the various lockdowns - with pools only set to re-open for the first time this year on Monday, April 12.

However, additional pools and classes have been added and seven new staff recruited - six teachers and one poolside assistant.

In addition, she has also been tackling a personal illness which left her with a long and tricky journey to recovery, involving having to learn to walk again.

She said: “I am absolutely astounded and so incredibly proud to win. Everyone is so hardworking and driven to providing the best learning experience for our babies and children to learn how to swim."

Jo Stone, co-founder and managing director of Puddle Duck, added: “Victoria is a shining example in our network. She has endless ambition and desire to achieve her goals and constantly delivers."

Head to our business page for all of the latest news about businesses in Kent