AS Scotland goes to the polls to decide whether it will become independent, many young people across the rest of the UK are choosing to go it alone themselves, by starting up their own businesses.

That is according to accountancy firm Haines Watts, based in Sarum Hill, Basingstoke.

Barry Potter, who is a partner at the firm, said: “There has been an increase year-on-year in the number of young people setting up on their own since the recession – partly due to higher university fees and difficulty getting jobs in their chosen sector.

“Those successful young people in the Basingstoke and Thames Valley may be interested to know that the closing date for our Young Entrepreneur competition September 30 – this is the last chance to get entries in.”

During October candidates will be interviewed to try and secure a place in the finals, which will be held on November 5, in Reading.

The chosen finalists will each receive prizes, such as cash for their business and free advice on all aspects of running a successful enterprise.

This includes mentoring sessions from partners at Haines Watts for a year. They also receive associated publicity.

For information about the Haines Watts Young Entrepreneur competition please visit hwye.co.uk The Haines Watts Young Entrepreneur Competition is on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn