A CREDITON woman who makes bespoke memorial jewellery has won a local award.

Andie Durnell of Forget-Me-Not Keepsakes was crowned “Female Sole Trader/ Freelancer of the Year” at the Devon Women in Business Awards 2025 at Sandy Park on Friday, November 14.

She was also highly commended in the “Contribution to the Community” category. Judges praised her “compassion-led approach, exceptional craftsmanship, lived-experience empathy and the positive, lasting emotional value her work creates”.

“Trust me when I say I am totally filled with gratitude, emotions and tears (happy ones!),” said Ms Durnell.

“I had the pleasure of celebrating amongst incredible female-led businesses who all deserve to be recognised for their hard work.

“A massive thank-you to every single person who puts their trust in me daily, not just locally but internationally. A massive hug for those who chose Forget-Me-Not Keepsakes to create such intimate and bespoke pieces of commemoration jewellery.”

Earlier this year, Ms Durnell appeared on BBC One’s Make It at Market, a TV programme that helps entrepreneurs make a living out of their crafting hobby.

Forget-Me-Not Keepsakes is based at Westward Business Centre on Mill Street in Crediton.

Ms Durnell makes rings with glass settings infused with the ashes of loved ones, keepsakes made using a mother's breastmilk, and more.

She can also incorporate hair or fur into mementos. You can find out more by visiting: forgetmenotkeepsakes.uk.

Devon Women in Business is a professional network for women in the county. Its members include business owners, freelancers, professionals, and creatives. It aims to help women “build confidence, skills, visibility and success, whatever stage they are at in their journey”.

Another local winner at the awards ceremony was Katherine Hawke of Hawke Barn near Tiverton, who was named “Inspirational Leader of the Year”.