WHEN Chris Houghton founded his own business Eventura 11 years ago he had enjoyed a stellar career with some of the world’s best-known technology firms including military and private sectors.

He created complete technology service provider Eventura with a team of six.

Today, it employs 22 people in town centre offices and plans to double in size within three years after relocating to new, purpose-designed premises in Westhoughton later this year.

Eventura employs two new apprentices each year, training them in-house alongside experienced team members as well as completing external qualifications.

The company provides a comprehensive range of managed IT on-site or cloud services and Sage accounting solutions to organisations predominantly throughout the North-west, although also around the UK and overseas. These have ranged from Umbro, Ping, Ashworth & Callaway and Pringle Scotland to shoe guru Jimmy Choo.

Bolton-born Mr Houghton is a founding member of the Bolton Business Board of the NSPCC, Editorial Board Primary Advisor for Which ERP and a patron of Bolton Lads and Girls Club.

He is a BWFC supporter, club sponsor of Bolton County football team and Bolton Sports Federation Tennis League and recently founded the Bolton branch of the Royal Society of St George which campaigns to uphold English traditions and help the needy.

“It’s a genuine honour to be shortlisted for this award among local business people in my home town,” said Mr Houghton.

“I am proud of the successful company we have built and we plan to bring further business to Bolton.”