A NORTHWICH businesswoman has enjoyed a standing ovation after receiving an award at the prestigious Electrical Times Awards ceremony.

Dianne Johnson, financial director of Little Leigh-based contractors Eric Johnson of Northwich, won outstanding contribution to the electrical industry at the ceremony in London last month.

Combining the role of wife and mother with her job at the family firm, Diane is a spokesman and campaigner for skills and vocational careers.

Diane said: “I am so proud to receive this award. Skills are at the heart of our economy and society and it is fantastic to be recognised for something which I am so passionate about.”

In 2010, Diane became the first female president in the 110-year history of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) and represents the association as skills ambassador.

Steve Bratt, ECA group chief executive, said: “Diane is one of those rare people who gives her time so freely – whether she’s giving evidence at select committee hearings or going head-to-head on national radio with the skills minister.”

Diane is the driving force behind the ground-breaking Wired for Success campaign, which she set up during her ECA presidency to encourage women into the electrical industry.