Jo praises East Dunbartonshire's enterprising spirit

5.13.00pm GMT Fri 17th Nov 2006

Jo Swinson has marked Enterprise Week 2006 (13th-19th November) by highlighting a local business success story.

Kirkintilloch-based entrepreneur Faye Ward established herself as a freelance illustrator and designer in July 2006 with a Young Persons Start-up grant from Business Gateway. Trading as Faye Ward Creative, she offers a unique range of services from graphic design and contemporary illustration to bespoke interior artworks. Today, Jo Swinson spoke with Faye about the successes and pitfalls of getting a new business of the ground.

Ms Swinson said:

"It is great to see young entrepreneurs flourishing in East Dunbartonshire, and benefiting from the support that is available to encourage new businesses to grow.

"East Dunbartonshire's economy is largely made up of small businesses, with a strong spirit of enterprise running through the area. I am greatly encouraged to see my colleagues in Holyrood putting this same spirit of enterprise at the centre of their plans for Scotland's future."

Faye Ward commented:

"Business Gateway have been enormously supportive over the past few months, and (Business Start Up Advisor) Steven Reileys' guidance has been crucial in enabling me to use my creative talents within a business context."

"So far, working for myself has been a steep learning curve but also greatly rewarding!"

Enterprise Week runs from 13th to 19th November 2006. The week involves a range of events around the UK aimed at helping young people to turn their ideas into working realities. Enterprise Week is organised by Enterprise Insight - a coalition founded by the UK's main business organisations in partnership with leading enterprise development organisations.

Faye Ward Creative can be contacted on 07849065763 or at faye@wardcreative.com.