THE owner of a health spa in Huddersfield has won a business award.

Maxine Stead, of Alexandra House Health Spa in Edgerton, was honoured by the Kirklees Women’s Alliance. The awards recognise individuals of outstanding merit who have gone ‘the extra mile’ to help others by making contributions which improve people’s lives and wellbeing.

She was nominated by Stephen Collins from Lazarus Mobility; Zoe Mansbridge, of Lifenergy; and by one of the spa’s clients.

Stephen said: “Maxine bought a wheelchair ramp for the spa from my business and I decided to have a massage there. I have cerebral palsy and require assistance with some activities.

“When I met Maxine, she really put me at ease and didn’t make me feel like a person with any additional requirements.

“She helped me get ready and helped me onto the massage couch. I feel as if Maxine does not judge me and it is not very often that a business owner is as compassionate and caring as Maxine.”

Zoe said: “Maxine provided free business mentoring for me over a period of 10 months whilst my business was in its early stages. The time spent with Maxine was fantastic. She really cares and having someone believe in you in such a way is life changing.”

Alexandra House has received much recognition since it was launched four years ago and has been described as ‘a slice of heaven just off the M62’ by the Good Spa Guide, the independent comprehensive guide to UK spas, which awarded it a ‘four bubble’ rating.