YOUNG entrepreneurs have been invited to enter a competition to win a shop for a year in the centre of Droitwich Spa.

The winner will be awarded the shop, located in St. Andrew’s Street, rent and rate free as well as a year's free membership to Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and free business mentoring arranged by Worcestershire Business Central.

Applicants must be aged between 18 and 30, have completed a business plan, and preferably undertaken a recognised business start up course within the last three years.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to make their pitch for a unit to a panel comprising of representatives from Salmon Harvester, the Prince’s Trust and Worcestershire Business Central, Cllr Richard Morris and Jane Dobson, economic development officer at Wychavon District Council.

Nick Webb, asset manager at Salmon Harvester, owners of St Andrew’s Square in Droitwich, said: “This package is worth over £25,000 and offers an entrepreneur their first foot on the retail ladder.

"Our ownership in Droitwich town centre extends to 43 retail units and incorporates big name brands such as Morrisons, Argos, Boots, Wilkos and New Look.

"It is the perfect opportunity for a new business to test out the market and showcase their retail offer.

“We know that similar schemes elsewhere have been incredibly successful and are delighted to be working with Wychavon District Council to provide the winner with the full wraparound support they may need.

"We felt it was time to encourage new talent and hopefully bring something new to the town centre.”

Councillor Richard Morris, board member for economy and housing at Wychavon District Council, said: “This is such a fantastic opportunity for someone to make a real go of a retail business idea right in the heart of Droitwich Spa.

"Supporting entrepreneurs and those wishing to make new investments in our district is so important and could be such a great break for one lucky person.

“Our sincere thanks go to Salmon Harvester for working with us on this innovative opportunity and for making this possible.

"I think it would be great to see many different ideas on how retail can engage consumers in this day and age.”

All eligible residents should fill out an application form from wychavon.gov.uk/business. Entries must be submitted by Friday, September 29.