Jamie Dunn, founder of groundworks and construction hire company, Laird Dunn Groundworks Ltd, has been named Paisley’s top young entrepreneur after winning a prestigious business award and a cash boost of £1000.

Jamie beat the business talents of Paisley’s best young start ups to win the regional final of the 2008 Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust 'Young Entrepreneur of the Year' Awards.

Jamie set up his company to provide plant and labour hire to the construction industry across the West of Scotland and carries out foundation, road and drainage contracts as well as residential works including landscaping, decking and driveway construction.

Since creating the company, Jamie now has three excavators in use and employs five staff. Due to his increasing workload Jamie expects to recruit a further three employees.


The ceremony, which took place on Wednesday 3rd September at UWS Paisley Campus was attended and supported by Stuart Macdonald of Seric Systems who presented Jamie with a cheque for £1000.

Jamie will now be considered by the judging panel to go forward for the national final taking place in Glasgow’s Barony Hall on Monday 17th November 2008. Six of the 18 regional winners will be selected to compete for the coveted national title of this year’s Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust 'Young Entrepreneur of the Year' and the opportunity to win £2000.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, PSYBT regional manager, Tony Dorrington said: "These young entrepreneurs represent some of the most talented, creative and dedicated business people in Scotland today and we are delighted to be able to recognise and reward their achievements through these awards.

They should act as a true inspiration for us all in terms of demonstrating commitment, self belief and determination to not only take the first brave steps into working for themselves but to go on and create successful and sustainable businesses that contribute to Scotland’s future."

Stuart Macdonald from Seric Systems added: "Entrepreneurship is essential to our future prosperity not just in Paisley but throughout Scotland. Young people who set up their own businesses play an integral part in creating a strong and vibrant Scottish economy. We are looking forward to hearing more about the individuals who are building successful businesses in Scotland as part of these awards."

(GK)