Spotlight on ... Fiona Atkinson

I worked as a nanny, then a nursery nurse and nursery manager, and then I became an early years lecturer. I got fed up with the politics of teaching. So three-and-a-half years ago I bought Tinies Cheshire.

How has the business grown since then?

We now have four nurseries and a creche business, and we provide staffing solutions and nanny services. We work with drug rehabilitation providers and case management companies helping families with brain injuries.

How did it feel to win Business of the Year at the Stockport Business Awards?

I was absolutely stunned. I can't remember much that I said. But I was later told I'd said I had grown the business with a focus on being family-oriented, and that's definitely true. You have to look at your company and ask 'Would I let you look after my children?' If the answer's yes, then you've done a good job.