A Balsall Common businesswoman helped launch a national awards programme at the House of Commons this week as Ladies First celebrated its tenth anniversary.

The eighth Ladies First Professional Development Business Awards were officially launched during a special event at Westminster on Monday, September 7, attended by around 50 guests.

The awards, organised by Ladies First directors including Balsall Common's Tracey McAtamney, celebrate inspirational people from across the UK while also raising money for the QE Brain Tumour Fund.

Guests heard from host and Meriden and Solihull East MP Saqib Bhatti MBE, former MP Colleen Fletcher OBE, QE Brain Tumour Fund lead fundraiser Karen Jones and last year's Business Woman of the Year winner Elinor Perry.

Speaking after the launch, Tracey said: "What a fabulous day.

"To be able to hold such a celebratory occasion at the House of Commons was truly amazing.

"What makes the Ladies First Awards so special is that they are genuinely inclusive.

"We recognise inspirational women and men in business, charity workers, family businesses, young achievers and people from every age and background."

She added that the awards would continue to raise money for the QE Brain Tumour Fund, which supports patients, research and specialist equipment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

Karen Jones, lead fundraiser for the charity fund, said: "The QE Brain Tumour Fund is a cause very close to my heart.

"We work closely with the clinical team at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham to make sure our fundraising is focused on where it is really needed."

The launch event was sponsored by Elinor Perry, partner at Pentlands Accountants and Advisors in Leamington Spa.

She said: "Ladies First has become a powerful platform for recognising inspirational leaders and entrepreneurs, and we are delighted to sponsor the launch of the 2027 Awards at such a prestigious venue."

Nominations for the 2027 awards, including several new categories, will open in January, with the awards ceremony set to take place at the IXL Dallas Burston Polo Club on September 16 next year.

To find out more about Ladies First, click here.