Winner: Jacob Dent

Finalists: Sophie Kingsley; Dan Littlewood

A 17-YEAR-OLD who set up his own DJ business while studying for his A Levels was crowned the Fledgling Entrepreneur of the Year.

The award was a new category this year in recognition of talented youngsters aged between 11 and 19 who have shown entrepreneurial flair and creativity.

Jacob Dent, from Pannal, in Harrogate, has had a lifelong passion for music and used to stage discos in his bedroom.

His first proper gig was when he stepped in to help out his local primary school after it had been let down by a professional DJ.

He started off with old stereo equipment and a mirror ball, but his bookings soon allowed him to invest in modern sound and lighting equipment.

He said: "An exciting development in the business has been receiving inquiries from organisations to run multiple discos for them over a period of several months.

''This is beneficial to the business as it provides regular, scheduled work which will improve the cash flow of the business.

"I found it hard to get bookings at first, due to various barriers – my age, experience and lack of equipment.

''I decided that the best way to overcome these barriers was to charge a much lower price than my competitors.

''Over the years, as my experience, age, skill and equipment have improved, I have been able to increase my prices to achieve a profit."

Since he set up DJ Dent Disco Services, Mr Dent has provided disco services at weddings, school discos and private parties.

He has plenty of bookings for the future and he is now making a healthy profit.

He has even built his own website to promote the business.

Judges said they were impressed with Mr Dent’s task management as he runs his business while not only studying at Rossett School sixth form, but also while working for Boots, Marks & Spencer and also starting a computer repair business with training courses for elderly users.

Mr Dent said: “I’m overwhelmed to win. To be a finalist was a huge boost of confidence for me given my age. It has been a struggle setting up and getting to the point I’m at.

“I was blown away to win. It reaffirms what I’m trying to do, and it’s good to know that what I’m doing is right.”