A BUSINESSMAN from Hartlebury has been rewarded for his efforts in helping young people start and nurture their own firms.

Officials at The Prince's Trust, which provides low-interest loans, bursaries and support to young people who would not otherwise be able to go into business, gave John Hellens an award for his "outstanding contribution" at a special ceremony in Birmingham.

Mr Hellens, a self-employed management consultant, has "mentored" four businesses in a voluntary role during his seven-year involvement with the trust.

His current commitment is to Droitwich-based beauty salon Bonne Beaute, which was set up a year ago.

Mr Hellens gives advice, looks at figures and suggests marketing ideas in his role as mentor to the young firm.

He said: "It can be quite time consuming. I have to visit them at least once a month but sometimes it can be up to two or three times a week."

The Prince's Trust business start-up programme aims to help people aged 18-30 and Mr Hellens - along with 14 other mentors from across the Midlands - have been rewarded for their ongoing support.

Originally from London, Mr Hellens has been based in Hartlebury for 12 years. His desire to "put something back into the community" led to his involvement with the trust seven years ago.

He is set to oversee the development of Bonne Beaute for at least another two years while the firm's owners pay back their start-up loans.

"Seeing a business start from scratch is very exciting and gives me great pleasure," he said.

"Mentors are chosen based on their experience and knowledge, and with my retail background, I find it very rewarding to have an impact on new businesses and see them develop."