FIVE York jobs were saved when a vehicle interior specialist secured funding to ensure the future of the business.

Funding from the Business Enterprise Fund (BEF) positioned Seat Surgeons for growth, with the business now hoping to expand its team further over the year.

The Strensall-based business was founded by Paul Hewitt, who decided to specialise in automobile leather interiors after growing up around his father’s car body repair business.

However, Seat Surgeons faced closure when cashflow shortfalls left the business needing funding to buy stock in bulk for greater efficiency and cost effectiveness.

Mr Hewitt said: “If it wasn’t for BEF’s financial support we wouldn’t still be trading today and five people would have lost their jobs.

“Thanks to BEF giving us the help when we needed it we have been able to build the business and look forward to further growth in the future.”

BEF provides loans from £500 to £150,000 to businesses that are unable to raise the finance they require from mainstream lenders.

Seat Surgeons now continues to offer services for all vehicles wanting custom-made leather upholstery including camper vans, coaches and people carriers, as well as diversifying into other unique areas including cinema seats and bar stools for a personalised effect.

BEF is headquartered in Bradford, and last year opened a York office in Blake House, Blake Street.

Steve Waud, BEF fund director, said: “The Business Enterprise Fund believes it’s important to fill the funding gap for those unable to draw on the main source of finance for one reason or another.

“We are delighted the businesses of York have recognised the opportunities BEF can bring.”