Northumberland Garage Co-Owner Shortlisted for Two Women in Motor Industry Awards

Ellessie Browne, who runs Meadowfield Auto Centre in Ponteland alongside her partner Stephen, has been shortlisted in two categories at the 2026 Women in Motor Industry Awards, organised by Motor Trader.

Browne is a finalist for both Independent Garage Owner of the Year (Women Led) and Business Owner of the Year. The recognition follows her success at the 2025 awards, where she won the Inspiring Returner Award.

Ellessie Browne said:

“To be shortlisted for two awards is a huge honour.”

“Winning the Inspiring Returner Award last year meant an enormous amount to me, particularly because of everything that had happened before I returned to work. This year feels slightly different.”

“These nominations are about what we’ve built and what I’m contributing to the business today, which makes them really special in a different way.”

“We’re a small independent garage in Ponteland, so to be recognised alongside women and businesses from across the UK motor industry is something I’m incredibly proud of.”

Browne joined Meadowfield Auto Centre in 2020 after working within the BMW and MINI dealer network. The Ponteland site provides MOT testing, servicing, repairs, tyres, and diagnostics, and will mark 10 years under its current ownership later this year. The business was also previously named a finalist in the Best Single-Site Garage category at the 2026 IAAF Garage Awards.

Winners of the 2026 Women in Motor Industry Awards will be announced during a ceremony at Hilton London Bankside on 2 December.

Adam Lane