A BOOTHAM restaurant owner is hoping for success in the Business Personality of the Year and Young Entrepreneur categories at this year's Business Press Awards.

Raj Ahmad, 26, a former York College business studies student, opened the Raj eatery two years ago, aiming to follow in his father's footsteps as an entrepreneur.

Back then, the business employed seven people, but now the restaurant boasts a team of 15.

They are "always looking for ways to improve" according to Raj and he says the key to the restaurant's success has been "hard work and dedication of the team, first class customer service and excellent customer feedback."

Aiming to live up to its slogan as 'The Talk of York' a new curry night was so successful it was fully booked within two days of launching, with huge demand to taste the recipes of an award-wining chef from London.

Customer feedback is a huge factor for Raj, whether it is from Dame Kelly Holmes - who was delighted with her zalfryzy- or loyal customers, and everyone gets a free drink at the end of their meal.

Importantly, Raj has made sure staff are also kept happy, with a team night out every two months, dining at other restaurants to see what they can learn from them or "what we are doing better".

The young entrepreneur has made sure he contributes to the York community by using local food suppliers, local tradesmen, and sponsoring York City FC, who are regular diners.

Raj believes he is "doing remarkably well" and is proud of his achievements but winning at The Press Awards would be "the icing on the cake" and hope his passion for his restaurant will put him in the final.