A WOMAN from Chagford was a runner-up in an award to recognise the UK’s most promising renewable energy professionals.

Bella Craddock was a finalist for the Young Renewable Energy Professional accolade in the British Renewable Energy Awards.

Bella, who works for Okehampton-based Forest Fuels as a customer account manager, was recognised above many other leading professionals in the industry thanks to her customer-focused work ethic and outgoing and friendly nature.

The award recognises an individual within the first five years of their renewable energy career who show the potential to be a future leader in the industry.

Recognition in the British Renewable Energy Awards is widely regarded as being among the most prestigious and notable honours in the industry.

Bella said: ‘When we found out I’d been shorlisted, the whole Forest Fuels team congratulated me. Everyone I work with in the office was ecstatic, while other employees from the regional offices around the country were getting in touch to send on their best wishes – it really was amazing. It’s kind of like one big family here.’

Bella has been working for Forest Fuels – the UK’s largest biomass woodfuel distributor – for just over a year, and is based at their UK head office in Higher Stockley Mead, Okehampton.

In that time Bella has gained herself an impressive reputation with customers, colleagues and others in the renewable energy industry.

‘My clients know they can call me whenever and I’ll always be on the other end of the phone,’ said Bella.

‘If something comes in just as I’m leaving, I’ll always deal with it there and then because it’s so important to go the extra mile. Although some people wouldn’t like that, I really do.  I live in a small town, so I’ll often see customers out and about so we’ll have a quick chat —and I really do value that.’

Bella was honoured at the award ceremony at The Savoy in London last Thursday (June 15).