An online shoe retailer set up by two fashion graduates has been shortlisted for a national footwear award.

Kindred Sole, launched by Lizzie Leary, 23, and Beth Widdowson, 24, is a finalist for footwear brand of the year in the footwear industry awards.

The former De Montfort University students started the Loughborough business two years ago.

As well as building up a strong customer base in the UK, the business ships as far as America and Australia.

The awards, voted for by the public, will be held on February 19 in Birmingham.

Household names such as Kurt Gieger, Fit Flop and Nike are among those nominated in a range of categories.

Beth said: "It is an honour for Kindred Sole to be included in such a prestigious national award. This is extra special for us as the awards were voted for by the public.

"There are some really big names, which is a bit intimidating, but we are really excited.

"The business has grown so much and I think part of the success is that we have been able to respond to knew trends very quickly."