SHE works to create treasured memories for others and Bolton Business Awards 2018 ended up being a memorable night for Kate Greenhalgh.

For Kate's business A Year of Dates won Start Up Business of the Year.

And her story is a real inspiration for those who have great ideas but no experience in the business world.

The idea for the now award-winning business was inspired by a special Christmas present she received from her husband John.

He made a glass jar filled with sealed envelopes, each one containing a date idea. And every week a envelope was picked out with an idea for a "date".

Realising what a special present it, and encouraged by comments from her friends about the gift, Kate started the business in September 2016 while on maternity leave after having daughter Pheobe.

And before Christmas that year she had more than 100 orders and has sold more than 3,500 units and developed the business by adding more products, all based around cards sealed in envelopes, and each is aimed at a specific audience, including those who have "big" birthdays coming up and for new parents.

The idea is to to make memories, try new things and have adventures with family and friends.

The surprise winner praised the help she has received from the Bolton business community and organisations.

Kate said: "I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed actually, I did not expect that to happen at all."

She added: "The business has been going two years this month. My husband actually made me a date jar for Christmas about four years ago and everyone said it was a really good idea and said they wished they had time to do that. We've turned it into a business."

Kate said: "I have had a lot of support from the business community in Bolton.

"I've been part of the Business Growth Hub, I've joined the Chamber of Commerce, it's been brilliant. I think definitely it helps in the success.

"I don't know anything about running a business, I'm making it up as I go along, so they have been really helpful."

FULL COVERAGE - read the winners' stories

Editor's award - John Carr 

Business of the year - Darts Corner

Businessperson of the year - James Bancroft 

Apprentice of the year - Ellie Entwistle

Employer of the year - ExcluSec 

Manufacturer of the year - Pure Fabs 

Retailer of the year - Market Place 

Family business of the year - HCS 

Innovation award - Bolton College

Customer excellence award- Market Place

Not for profit - Bolton Young Person's  Housing Scheme 

Community award - Bolton Family 

SME business of the year - Handrail creations 

Start up of the year - A Year of Dates