Antony, aged 30 from Liverpool, Merseyside, drank heavily, was involved in drugs and was drifting through life without a job. He became involved with people who were well-known to police and almost became drawn into his friends’ criminal activity.

Realising he wanted to make more of his life, he turned away from thereckless path he was about to take. Antony says: "My life could have easily gone down a very dark path, but something made me see how wrong it was."

A friend suggested Antony asked us about setting up his own business.

I'd done a lot of work for a flat roofing contractor and thought I could probably offer similar services myself but using glass fibre which was new to the market, rather than the traditional bitumen felt.

He attended an Enterprise workshop, our programme that helps unemployed young people set up in business, and under the guidance of a mentor, whom Antony credits as 'crucial' to the success of his business, he founded Sefton Specialised Roofing.

"Yes I had a good USP but David, my mentor, helped me steer clear of costly pitfalls that could have been a real threat to my business in the early days."

Antony's bold entrepreneurial spirit and business savvy attitude sealed his success. He now employs six staff, has carried out work for big brand names and enjoys good relationships with his direct domestic clients.

Guts and sheer determination to change his life has led Antony to where he is today. In addition to running a thriving business, he has talked as an inspirational speaker to new participants of Enterprise. He has started supporting other entrepreneurs alongside his mentor, and has become a valued Young Ambassador.

I can't get over how different my life is. The Prince's Trust put their faith in me and helped me believe in myself. Without their support I wouldn't be where I am today. I've got my own business which I am looking forward to developing and I'm using my experiences to help other people like me. I’m absolutely delighted.