A YOUNG York businessman has been nominated for two Great British Entrepreneur awards.

Craig Benton, 28, has been shortlisted for Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Export and International Trade Entrepreneur of the Year.

The national awards recognise the best and most innovative businesspeople in the country. Mr Benton will find out if he has won at a ceremony on November 25 in London.

The nominations follow the success of his firm, London Deli Company, based in Murton, which exports British snacks across the world.

Mr Benton said: "I am delighted to have been shortlisted as a Great British entrepreneur. Even if I don’t win it is an honour to be recognised for the hard work and determination that have been central to my business’ success.

"I started out using my bedroom as an office, so to get to this point is an absolute delight. I hope it’s an example to other young people thinking of setting up their own business – if you set your mind to something then it’s possible.”

Since being launched, London Deli Company has signed contracts with retailers across the Middle East and is one of the biggest sellers at Harrods' foodcourt. It has also branched out into supplying hotel and aeroplane miniatures.

Despite the international success and an office in London's Regent St, the former Huntington School pupil is still firmly attached to York.

Mr Benton said: "I’ll always be a York lad so it’s great to be able to contribute to the local economy and get people all over the world eating delicious Yorkshire made food."