Dragon-slayer Kirsty to inspire Rotherham entrepreneurs

AN ENTREPRENEUR who impressed at the Dragons’ Den will speak at a business event in Rotherham later this year.

Kirsty Henshaw (24), will share her story about when she entered the den and came out with significant financial backing for her business.

She will be speak to entrepreneurs at Rotherham Enterprise Board’s Dragons’ Den-style event on December 6 when local companies can bid for a £1,500 cash prize.

A spokesman for the event said: “Last year, Kirsty demonstrated passion, commitment and a gritty determination to succeed by delivering one of the best pitches ever seen on the BBC Dragons’ Den programme.

“She impressed all of the panel and secured £65,000 worth of investment from Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne in return for a 30 per cent stake in her company, Worthenshaws Freedom.”

With the backing of the dragons, Kirsty’s company now supplies every major supermarket in the UK with dairy-free, nut-free and sugar-free frozen puddings, which were originally inspired by her four year old son who has a serious nut allergy and is dairy and gluten intolerant.

She began experimenting with a little ice cream maker from Argos in her tiny kitchen at home and formulated a recipe for success combining brown rice milk, coconut oil and natural fruit extracts , all renowned for their health giving properties.

The former care assistant, bar maid and massage therapist from Preston, became one of the youngest entrepreneurs to receive investment on the show.

The spokesman added: “Now an inspirational, confident and ‘can-do’ young woman, Kirsty will talk about her experience of entering the real Dragons’ Den and about her entrepreneurial journey so far to Rotherham businesses and entrepreneurs.

“Kirsty will not only be passing on her knowledge and tips to the businesses who are selected to enter the den on December 6, but she will also be putting them through their paces by taking on the role as one of the dragons.”

This is the third event of its kind and is sponsored by UK Steel Enterprise and funded through the European Regional Development Fund.

It will be an opportunity for Rotherham businesses to take on a challenge, develop their business and take advantage of invaluable advice from Kirsty Henshaw and other successful entrepreneurs on a Dragons' Den panel and invited audience.

The event is free to attend and open to businesses based within Rotherham, that have been trading for three years or less.

The best pitch on the night will receive a prize of £1,500 to support their businesses growth potential and they may also receive capital investment opportunities and guaranteed exclusive editorial coverage in the South Yorkshire Business Magazine.

To apply for this event or find out more details contact 01709 823848 or email [email protected].

Visit www.rotherham-enterprise.org for more information.

Pic: head and shoulders of Kirsty