WISHING wells, theatrical props and bird tables have helped earn York entrepreneurs Rosie Ellis and Matt East a prestigious business accolade.

The couple, whose business Scenecraft UK provides scenery for museums, theatres and television productions, as well as a range of imaginative garden products, won the Shell Livewire York and North Yorkshire Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award on Friday. The business has recently relocated from Strensall to a new base at the Easingwold Business Park.

The pair were presented with a £1,000 cheque and a bottle of champagne by York MP Hugh Bayley, at the award ceremony, at the Mansion House, in York.

Rosie said: "I can't believe it. I'd convinced myself we hadn't won, but I'm very happy we have."

She said the money would be put towards one of three things to help their business - buying a digital camera, adding their company logo to their new van or buying a new computer.

Sarah Byrne, who started York-based events management company Mosaic Events Ltd at the start of the year, scooped the £500 runner-up prize.

She will be joining Rosie and Matt at the regional final of the awards at the Royal Armouries, in Leeds, on April 19.

York wrestling promoter Alan Johns and his business Ultimate Fighting Organisation came joint third, with Sam Voro, of Alpha Solutions, whose Tourist Information System uses wireless technology to create synergy between tourists, local businesses and the organisations which manage attractions. Both companies received £300.

The three remaining finalists, York-based telesales and telemarketing business Yozo Ltd, Scarborough-based Phold Bike and Skate and the Eden Skincare Centre, in Harrogate, all received £250.

Updated: 12:02 Monday, March 15, 2004