A Cumbrian entrepreneur has won a national award.
Mel Walmsley, of Lakes Sandwiches, based in Kendal, won the Family Business Award at the 2025 Enterprise Vision Awards, the UK’s largest celebration of women in business.
Founded in 2008, Lakes Sandwiches and Brandreth Foods remain family-owned and are dedicated to producing fresh, locally sourced food while championing sustainable practices that support both people and the planet.
Judges said: “Mel has built Lakes Sandwiches into a true family business. One that champions local provenance, supports its community and leads with heart.
“Her dedication to her team and customers, along with her passion for quality and commitment to sustainability, is evident in everything she does.”
Mel said: “Winning the Family Business Award means so much, not just to me, but to our whole team and family who’ve poured their hearts into building Lakes Sandwiches.
“We’re proud to represent Cumbria, to champion local produce, and to show that family businesses can grow with purpose while staying true to their roots.”
The EVAs were held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool.
Coral Horn, founder of the Enterprise Vision Awards, added: “It was wonderful to see Mel enter the EVAS with fire in her belly, she gave it her all and it paid off.
“Lakes Sandwiches is proof that family businesses can combine quality, sustainability and community spirit to create something outstanding.”
