The director of a Leicester-based cake-making company has been named East Midlands Businesswoman of the Year.

Debbie Bass – who runs the Sugar and Ice business - beat 80 other entries to scoop the prize in the Women of Worth competition.

When she bought the firm nine years ago it was specialising in cake decorating. But Debbie has expanded its premises in the city-centre, more than doubled turnover and successfully moved into party supplies, mail order and cake-decorating courses.

She has also opened a shop in Coalville and plans to open a third outlet this year.

“I’m absolutely delighted and over the moon,” said Debbie. “It’s such an honour.”