THREE years ago when Jessica Drillingcourt set up her children's party business in her parents' home she never could have imagined the success it has enjoyed.

For the second year running Jessica's business Ultimate Party People was nominated for a national prize following a public cote.

The Laffak-based business was shortlisted in the Best Children’s Party Entertainment category at the What’s On 4 Juniors awards, the only one in the North West to have made it.

Jessica, 25, attended the glamorous final ceremony at Chessington World of Adventures on June 23.

Jessica was again rubbing shoulders with some of the industry’s top companies at the ceremony which marked the 10th anniversary of the awards.

Despite not winning the top national prize, Jessica was overwhelmed with the experience once again.

"I am really proud, people we were up against have been going for 25 years," said Jessica.

"They were just amazed that we've got there twice in three years and I was the only St Helens accent there.

"There's so many entertainers around I couldn't have imagined this.

"It is a big achievement to do it from my mum and dad's house, which drives them crazy, and hard word does pay off."