A BUSINESS in Nailsworth is celebrating after receiving a royal seal of approval.

Children's cutlery company Doddl - located in Nailsworth Mills Estate - has been given a top recommendation at the King's Awards for Enterprise.

Cat Dodd, a mother of three, founded the company ten years ago after becoming frustrated with her family’s messy mealtimes.

Cat eventually established Doddl, a line of baby and toddler cutlery aimed at helping every child's weaning journey.

She now runs the business along with her friend Laura Thomas. 

The business has now been handed the King's Innovation award, which recognises companies with unique innovations and outstanding commercial success.

The King’s Representative, Lord Lieutenant for Gloucestershire, Edward Gillespie OBE presented the award to the team on Friday, November 24. 

He was joined by his Deputy Lieutenant, and the Chief Executive of Gloucestershire County Council, Peter Bungard. 

Stroud News and Journal: Doddl co-founder Cat Dodd with Lord Lieutenant for Gloucestershire, Edward Gillespie OBEDoddl co-founder Cat Dodd with Lord Lieutenant for Gloucestershire, Edward Gillespie OBE (Image: doddl)

Co-founder Cat Dodd said: “This is such an exciting occasion for us, everyone is incredibly proud! 

“I knew when we founded doddl that we had something special, an idea that would genuinely help parents and make lives easier. 

“So, to have that idea recognised and rewarded with such a prestigious accolade feels just wonderful. 

“We were delighted to welcome Lord Gillespie, his Deputy Lieutenant and the Chief Executive of Gloucestershire County Council, Peter Bungard.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise was previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise. 

The new name reflects the King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s by recognising outstanding UK businesses. 

The award programme, now in its 57th year, celebrates the success of exciting and innovative businesses which are leading the way with pioneering products or services. 

It is the most prestigious business award in the country, with successful businesses able to use the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.