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WESTERN ISLES YOUNG BUSINESS TAKES STEP CLOSER TO BECOME NATIONAL LIVEWIRE |
30 March 2004 |
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A 25 year old Electrician from Stornoway was today named as the Western Isles’ top Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year and took a major step closer to becoming the overall Scotland winner. Aonghas Campbell won the £700 first prize at the Western Isles final of the 2004 Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, which are supported nationally by Shell UK and also locally by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. Aonghas started his business, A. Campbell Electrical Services, in November 2002 carrying out repairs to domestic appliances and wiring/re-wiring residential and business properties. Aonghas had a very successful first year of trading with turnover exceeding business plan expectations. In fact, the business has been so successful Aonghas has had to take on two tradesmen to cope with the demand for his electrical services. Aonghas will now represent the Western Isles at the Scottish final in the National Museums of Scotland in Edinburgh on the 6th of May 2004. Iline Afrin of Body and Sole won 2nd place and walked away with a cheque for £300. Iline set up her business just 8 months ago and has been delighted with her progress so far. Appointments are booked up a week in advance by her ever growing customer base and she has had to employ a part time receptionist to help her cope with the demand. Iline offers a full range of beauty and skincare treatments, wedding make-up as well as giving talks to school pupils on skincare. Commenting on his success, Aonghas said, “I’m delighted to have won this prestigious award. It’s a great boost for my business, and I’m looking forward to competing in the Scottish final in May.” The two finalists met with Judges, Cllr Donald Maclean, PSYBT Regional Chairman and Donald Macdonald, Business Manager, Bank of Scotland on Friday 26 March in the Comhairle Offices. The Judges scrutinised each finalist’s business plan, as well as conducting interviews to assess individual business acumen, potential and long term business viability. They were very impressed with the high standard of both businesses and found their decision a difficult one to make. Congratulating Aonghas on his win, Western Isles Shell LiveWIRE co-ordinator, Jane Campbell of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said, “The judges were very impressed by Aonghas and thought his business had outstanding potential. His enthusiasm and ability make him a real LiveWIRE.” Clive Mather, Chairman, Shell UK Limited said: “Shell UK supports Shell LiveWIRE because it believes that small firms, created by enthusiastic young people, are vitally important in generating enterprise and job opportunities in Scotland. Shell has a major presence in Scotland and is committed to promoting a culture of sound business planning to create a successful and sustainable future for everyone in the community.” If you are aged 16 - 30 and would like to find out how to turn your business idea into reality call Shell LiveWIRE now on 0845 757 3252 (Cost of a local call). Alternatively you can check out their web site at www.shell-livewire.org. Nigel Scott Tel: 01851 709389 (Work) |
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