Historic hall in Carnforth shortlisted for two national awards

For the first time, the hall has been shortlisted for the Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAS), the UK’s largest business awards dedicated solely to women which recognise creating positive impact, and making a difference in local communities alongside business entrepreneurship.

Before the glittering awards ceremony to be held at Blackpool Winter Gardens on September 27, Leighton’s estate manager Lucy Arthurs will face a further grilling from the judging panel.

But with the EVAS’ unique focus on showcasing and fostering the diverse talents of women in business, her nomination opens up a wide support network including coaching masterclasses and networking events with fellow finalists.

A second finals nomination comes from Historic Houses which represents thousands of independent and family-owned historic houses, castles and gardens across the UK.

Leighton has reached the final of the Frances Garnham Award, one of just five categories in these prestigious awards which recognises innovative approaches to education and community engagement.

“It’s been quite a week,” said Lucy whose famous Gillow family have lived in the hall for generations. “To be nominated in the EVAS is recognition of not just myself but my mother’s inspiring example, the many incredible women on the Leighton team, how far we’ve moved from traditional expectations and the empowerment we aim to pass on to the next generations coming through.

“Historic Houses is an incredible organisation enabling unique examples of British history to remain open, accessible and inspirational. We won their Sustainability Award last year so to receive further recognition for another of our passions, education, is further endorsement of our hard work and investment including innovative school visits, forest school, community and charity partnerships, and building our new education hub to the highest environmental standards.”

With the Historic Houses awards evening following on in November, and a busy schedule of summer public open days, events, weddings, school visits, and tree planting and sustainability initiatives, it doesn’t sound like there will be much time for awards nerves.

Lucy added: “Recognition is a lovely bit of icing on the cake but day to day, making sure the icing on the cakes in our tearoom is up to standard definitely comes first!”