A Worcester-based operations manager who earned a top business award while pregnant has been described as a "superwoman".

Former British Olympic swimmer Sharon Davies presented Louise Lowe, of Security Industry Training Organisation (SITO), with the Manager of the Year Award.

And Jackie Wilmshurst, of Herefordshire Group Training Organisation (HGTA) who awarded the accolade, was amazed by her achievements.

"I nominated Louise for a variety of reasons," she said.

"She was managing a dynamic team of individuals at a time of change within the organisation. She also produced a superb NVQ level 5 portfolio in a very short time span whilst pregnant with her second child.

"Apart from HGTA Manager of the Year, this makes her superwoman."

Surprise

The award surprised Mrs Lowe, an integral member of the Barbourne Road-based company's management team.

"I didn't know I'd been nominated," she said.

"I started NVQ 5 in September 2001 and completed it at the beginning of March 2002. Apparently, completing it in seven months is very unusual."

Mrs Lowe's second child was born just a fortnight after she finished the qualification.

SITO's general manager, Stefan Hay, was delighted with the recognition Mrs Lowe received, and was far from surprised at the award.

"Louise deserves this for the sheer amount of effort she puts into her job," he said.

"SITO is very lucky to have her."