PUDDLE Ducks founders Jo Stone and Tracy Townend are hoping to make a splash at award finals.

The Holmes Chapel-based company is a finalist in two categories in the NatWest Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWIF) Awards.

Jo Stone and Tracy Townend, co-founders of Puddle Ducks, are finalists in the

Woman Franchisor of the Year category - the fifth time in six years that they have been finalists for this award - while Ali Beckman, Technical Director and Head Teacher for Puddle Ducks, is a finalist in the Woman Franchise Employee category.

Jo Stone said: “We are delighted to have been recognised as finalists in the EWIF Award.

"We all work as a team, sharing the same ethos, and believe passionately in teaching babies and children to learn how to swim.

"We want every child to love swimming, respect the water and swim beautifully. That’s why our standards are the highest and our approach is unique.

"Puddle Ducks provides innovative swimming classes for babies, toddlers and children. Teachers focus on creating a nurturing environment, which supports independent swimming for children of all abilities.

"Puddle Duck’s accolade is in recognition of their impressive business skills, demonstrating positive growth and commitment.

"We are looking forward to the award ceremony on May 15, and would like to congratulate Ravneet Bermi, owner of Puddle Ducks West Hertfordshire and Luton, who has also been recognised as a finalist in the EWIF Award within the Woman Franchisee of the Year category.

Tracy and Jo first met at antenatal classes and soon realised they shared a love of swimming and a common desire to launch a business.

Puddle Ducks was founded in 2002 and they now have 35 franchisees across the UK teaching over 20,000 children to swim every week.

The EWIF is a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers, with the aim of changing the face of the franchise sector by offering women a larger presence within the industry. This is achieved through support, advice and celebration.

This year is the EWIF Awards’ eighth year of celebrating the achievements of women in the franchise industry.