A woman who started a children's nursery after being unable to find suitable care for her own youngsters has been nominated for a top award.

Sarah Steel, who opened the Old Station Nursery in Faringdon, is in the final of the Inspirational Business Mum of the Year Award.

She has overcome competition from more than 125 UK women who entered the award, which aims to recognise mothers who have successfully juggled developing a successful business with being a parent.

Ms Steel said: "The last five years have been a real journey, and I have faced many challenges along the way, but I wouldnt swap it for anything.

"Its been a great adventure and I would recommend going it alone to other mums."

The Old Station Nursery was set up in 2001 by Ms Steel after she left the army to have her second child but was unable to find adequate care for her youngsters.

The business has now expanded to a total of eight nurseries including a site at Benson.

The Inspirational Business Mum of the Year is part of the Prowess Awards and Ms Steel will join other finalists at a gala dinner in Brighton tomorrow, when the overall award winner will be announced.

Catherine Kehoe, head of marketing strategy and communications at awards sponsor Yell, publisher of Yellow Pages directories, said: "Sarah is the epitome of an inspirational business mum and thoroughly deserves her place amongst the finalists."