An associate solicitor is in the running for a national franchising award.

Birketts' Vicki Mitman has been shortlisted for the Encouraging Women Into Franchising's (EWIF) service provider of the year award, having previously won the young woman in franchising accolade in 2015.

The Norwich-based solicitor is also the EWIF eastern regional chairman and specialises in franchising, licensing and brand protection.

Ed Savory, legal director and head of franchising at Birketts, said: 'I am delighted that the fantastic work Vicki carries out has been recognised. In addition to the 'day job' she does a great deal within the franchise industry and she also holds the bfa's Qualified Franchise Professional status and was recently elected as bfa Affiliate Forum Chair.'

This is the seventh time the national organisation has held the awards and this year's awards ceremony will be held on May 16 in London.