A former metal worker from Middlesbrough, who took voluntary redundancy after 21 years at Corus, has set up his own company with help from Business Link’s programme of Start Your Business events.

Paul Allinson, a skilled craftsman working in gold, silver, pewter and resin set up Nosallis Designs after Lee Pickering, who now works for Paul, attended two workshops. The company specialises in the design and hand sculpting of jewellery including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, set with precious and semi-precious stones.

Paul said: “Setting up my own business after a long career at Corus was a big step, and taking it was one of the best things I have ever done. Although I have much more to think about and more decisions to make now, having control of my own enterprise and being able to shape it and drive it forward is fantastic.

“Despite the difficult economic climate, the company is now experiencing an upturn from this time last year and is enjoying a period of steady growth.”

Nosallis Designs is now producing commissions for customers throughout the UK and has also supplied a number of pieces to buyers in Germany, France, Portugal, and as far afield as Australia.

Paul continued: “Our customers are attracted by the unique qualities of our hand made products, many of which are sculptured. We are also very flexible in the commissions we can provide and have embellished items ranging from motorbikes and furniture to walking sticks.

“The advice Business Link gave us was really comprehensive and made the process of setting up a business much less daunting. Business Link has played an important role in getting Nosallis Designs up and running and I would recommend their service to anyone.”

Lee Pickering, added: “The Business Link events that I attended were fantastic and provided all the information required to set up a business.”

For more information about how a Business Link event could help you start your own business, visit www.eventsnortheast.co.uk or email enquiries@businesslinknortheast.co.uk.

For general information on the wide range of support Business Link has to offer, go to www.businesslink.gov.uk/northeast or call 0845 600 9 006.