AN ENTREPRENEUR who transformed her skin cancer experience into a skin care business has been nominated for a new business award.

Cecilia Rathe, 56, from Great Sutton, was inspired to launch the company, Mary Elizabeth Bodycare, after she was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2010, probably as a result of teenage years as a sun worshipper.

She creates, retails and supplies natural organic eco-friendly skincare and bodycare products.

The company has now been named as a new business category finalist in the Network She International Women’s Day Awards 2013.

A delighted Cecilia said: “We have demonstrated that we have a new business which is succeeding and which has great potential for future growth.”

The black-tie event recognises and rewards the success, effort and achievements of women in business from across the country who have succeeded and continue to succeed in their chosen field during today’s difficult and unpredictable economic times.

It will take place at the Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

The company is also up for the Best New Skincare Product Award at the Natural & Organic Products Exhibition in London Olympia from April 7-8.

Originally a solicitor by profession, Cecilia, who is also a qualified aromatherapist, made her own natural product to soothe her skin after skin cancer treatment.

She launched her first range in June last year and was shortlisted by marketing specialists for a national award as one of the 15 most exciting new firms in the country scooping 12 months marketing back-up from a top-flight London agency.