A MUSICAL businesswoman has won a place in the finals of an award scheme that recognises working mums.

Frances Donkin, who runs Rhythm Time music classes for babies and young children across Cheshire, is a finalist in the Franchisee of the Year category of the mumandworking 2011 awards.

The awards are organised by mumandworking.co.uk, and reward, recognise and celebrate the companies and individuals that make flexible working possible.

Frances, who runs classes in Knutsford Civic Centre, trained to become a Rhythm Time teacher after taking her daughter to the first session in the Midlands in 1994.

She bought the first franchise in 1999, and now delivers classes throughout Cheshire and North Staffordshire, with almost 16,000 children attending every week, supported by a team of 25 staff.

Frances said: “The awards are based around mums working with flexibility, and this is something that has been an important part of my work policy.

“My classes are term-time only, and all my staff work on a part-time basis, which complements family life so much.

“Rarely have I ever missed a school event or activity that my children have taken part in, yet still managed to grow the business to the size it is now.”

To celebrate her success Frances is inviting children and parents or carers to a free Rhythm Time session.

To book ring Frances on 01270 884 583 or visit rhythmtime.net.

The awards ceremony takes place on October 10.