A determined single mother rose to become managing director of a Bradford textiles firm just eight years after joining the company as a temporary clerk.

Now Greta Henderson, of Edmund Bell & Co, is to share her inspiring story with guests at the Bradford Chamber's inaugural business networking lunch for women.

During her speech, Miss Henderson will tell fellow businesswomen how "determination, hard work and impatience" led to her becoming managing director of the international company, which is based on Bradford's Euroway Trading Estate.

Miss Henderson, 48, said: "Everyone has got a level they can reach but it's all about attitude.

"I have been in the right place at the right time. I'm a single parent with two kids and I'm happy I've brought the children up and managed to work as well.

"The industry was very male-dominated when I first started, but these days it's wide open to anybody.

"People respect hard work," said Miss Henderson, who has now moved into the role of operations director.

She said: "I first came to Edmund Bell in a clerical job but boredom set in after a few weeks and I wanted to do more."

As people left the company or retired, Miss Henderson's love for the company and growing enthusiasm saw her rise through the ranks.

The company, which currently employs about 35 staff at its Bradford site, is part of American group Leggett & Platt.

Miss Henderson, who lives in Barnoldswick, said: "I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time. I feel I've done well and I'm pleased with my lot."

Now she has accepted an invitation to be the guest speaker at Bradford Chamber's first quarterly business networking lunch for women on Friday, April 28.

A spokesman for the Chamber said: "We're really excited to have her speaking for us as its a super success story.

"This event is a chance for women in business to get together, share ideas and network."

Edmund Bell & Co buys and sells fabrics in the international market and has a rich history, of which Miss Henderson is very proud. "We will be 151 years old this year, " she said.

"The company started in men's suit linings but moved towards curtains during the war because of the demand brought about by the black-outs.

"Now, we are all about exporting fabric, buying and selling linings."