AFTER graduating with a degree in graphic design while harbouring a love of antiques and collectables Holly Box left university with a desire to set up her own business.

The York youngster opened her first Greybear shop in Newcastle, where she had studied, selling a range of gifts, furniture, homeware and vintage finds, all of which she had sourced her self, with some incorporating her own designs.

After two years trading in Newcastle, Miss Box moved the venture for Knaresborough where she operated for a further two years, before relocating to York this year.

Miss Box, who is entering Young Entrepreneur of the Year, said: "I started my business venture in Newcastle, a small premises on the only cobbled street in the city called High street, which to get to you bear off the busy street of Grey street, hence where I came up with the name.

"I had collected many vintage and antique items throughout my time of being a graphic design student and eventually had enough to open a shop.

"I mix the old with the new so we have a perfect balance which really complement each other.

"I am also lucky enough to sell my own artwork which includes my own prints which I display in old frames, a selection of cards which I design and hand made jewellery.

"I pride myself with up cycling furniture too, giving it a new lease of life based on a vintage style for modern living."

Miss Box opened York's Grey Bear in Bridge Street on July 11 and says she has already been packed out with customers and inundated with compliments about the shop.