A BOLTON father-of-two who became unemployed and struggled to find work has launched his own business with the help of The Prince’s Trust.

Abdul Memon had a family to support, with two children aged three and five, and was jobless for 12 months.

He felt uncertain about the future and was not sure which way to turn.

Mr Memon had dreamed of running his own business and did some research into the motor industry, specifically around tyre repair, supply and fitting services.

He wanted to start his own firm but with limited knowledge and a limited budget he was not able to offer customers the products they required and was not making enough money to support his wife and young children.

Recognising the need for help, Mr Memon visited Bolton Business Ventures (BBV) in Lower Bridgeman Street, which helps start-up businesses. BBV then recommended The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme.

The Enterprise Programme helps young people to explore and test their business ideas, write business plans and start their own businesses whilst also offering financial support.

Mr Memon attended a four-day course, called Explore Enterprise, covering how to plan and run a business.

It included a tax session from HM Revenue & Customs, marketing, finance, accounts and business plans.

He was then successful in applying for financial support from The Prince’s Trust and received a £250 grant and £2,750 loan. This allowed him to purchase the relevant products and equipment to get the business off the ground.

A Prince’s Trust business mentor also helped Abdul after the course, to guide him in setting up his enterprise. He called it Pronto Tyres and launched it eight years ago. Based on Fern Street, Bolton, it has gone from strength to strength, and Mr Memon now employs fitter Lee Unsworth.

Mr Memon said: “My mentor gave me confidence and was always very positive. He always made me feel good about myself and what I was doing and I could discuss everything with him. He was always there to help.”

Pronto Tyres is now open seven days a week and has a strong repeat customer base.

Mr Memon thanked the The Prince’s Trust and said he would not be self-employed with his own business without them.