The owners of Sherwood Green Nursery were left "ecstatic" and lost for words after finding out they had won the Job Creator of the Year category.

Emilia Olkowska and Sal Ahmed were given the award, sponsored by Mitton Group, for their "outstanding role" in boosting employment in the district.

Emilia Olkowska, who is originally from Poland, created a high-quality nursery and eight jobs within a year of opening.

She has created a multicultural nursery that draws upon British, Irish, European and Asian cultures.

Mrs Olkowska has also introduced freshly cooked, healthy food to the nursery's menu.

Mrs Olkowska said: "

The staff have significant free training as well as a strong partnership with the council and local schools.

Sal Ahmed, co-owner and Emilia's husband, said winning the title was "one of the best feelings I've ever felt".

He said the city is the ideal place for those looking to start up a business.

Mr Ahmed said: "The rents are not extortionate and the people are accommodating.

"Our business model is about the community, it’s about diversity and acceptance.

"I think a lot of the bad press that Bradford gets is the bad press that’s in every city.

"Bradford is amazing. We are very grateful for the opportunity.

It is a timely win for the couple who have just signed a new lease for new premises in the Wyke area.

It will be expanding into new areas while keeping its current base on Sherwood Place in Bradford.

Mr Ahmed said: "We’d like to thank the Bradford early years team and organisers of the awards."

Finalists in the Job Creator category included Clever Energy Boilers, based at Aire Valley Business Centre in Keighley, and Expect Distribution - a family owned and run logistics business in Bradford.