A HEALTH and beauty expert is celebrating scooping an award in the 2001 European Federation of Black Women Business Owner's award.

Meave Darroux, 38, won the prestigious accolade in the category of public relations for her role in forming MDx PR, a company focusing on health, beauty, family and fitness, based in Laburnum Grove, Kingsbury.

Celebrating 18 years of experience in the PR business, Ms Darroux said: "I am absolutely thrilled to have won this prestigious award. It is a credit not only to myself but also to my friends and family who have encouraged me since the company's conception."

The sixth annual awards ceremony took place at the Intercontinental Hotel, in Park Lane, on November 9 and was attended by Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone. A total of 42 inspiring women were nominated.

President, Yvonne Thompson, added: "This event celebrates the accomplishments of ethnic minority women who make the grade, achieve against the odds, and make outstanding contributions not only to their community but to the UK as a whole."