A SUSTAINABLE outdoor lifestyle brand born and based in Northwich has been named in the north west final of the StartUp Awards.

Ryde was founded by Larnia Ryder in 2021, and the brand has now been nominated for the Fashion and Beauty, plus the Online Retail StartUp of the Year.

The StartUp Awards has been launched to recognise the booming startup scene across the UK which has accelerated since the 2019 pandemic.

A record number of businesses applied to this year’s awards, with 1,100 firms shortlisted across ten UK nations and regions.

Larnia launched Ryde in October 2021 and offers a variety of outdoor and leisure clothing.

The brand prides itself on inclusive, durable and long-lasting designs with closed loop and biodegradable solutions.

Larnia, who lives in Northwich, even partners with local firms where possible and all designs are made in the UK.

Lockdown proved to be the spark for Larnia's business.

Needing something to do in her spare time, Larnia began outdoor swimming at a nearby beauty spot – Pickmere Lake.

"I starting getting in freezing cold water and the difference it made to my mental health was amazing," she previously told the Guardian.

"And then I started noticing the clothes that go with that kind of lifestyle.

"I was thinking about creating something which I needed when I was freezing at the side of the water, and it's all rolled from there.

"I'm trying to create products which encourage people to be outside."

As well as being designed to allow people to freedom to embrace the outdoors, Larnia's products strive to be eco-friendly.

She said: “It’s amazing to be nominated for two awards.

“A huge thanks to the StartUp Awards for helping us shine the spotlight on the importance of sustainable gear for outdoor living and a better planet.”

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, the creator of the StartUp Awards, said: 

“​​Start-up businesses are the lifeblood of any economy, being responsible for new jobs, innovation and in supporting communities in every nation and region across the UK.

“All of the finalists this year represent the best of those entrepreneurs who have spotted an opportunity and through their sheer hard work, talent and perseverance, have created an amazing new business that is creating real impact in its sector.”