FORMER Apprentice star Neil Clough has launched his own company in Hale, offering a £10,000 prize for other business start-ups.

Neil, who shot to fame last year with his ‘right man, wrong plan’ proposal in the finals of the TV show, has been developing his business ever since.

And now he has launched NWC Consultancy.

Neil broke an Apprentice record during the caravan task, for the greatest number of high ticket items ever sold on the programme.

“The Apprentice has given me a big break,” said Neil.

“I’m grateful for that and I’m keen to give someone else a break by helping and supporting them in their business.”

NWC provides sales consultancy, sales training, coaching and mentoring and Neil says it was his time on The Apprentice that helped him focus on his strengths: “Sales have always been my strong point but the show helped me to see that they should be the focus of my new business.

“I’ve had more than 15 years’ experience in a sales environment. I’m passionate about sales and NWC Consultancy is dedicated to helping businesses grow,” added Neil.

The competition is open to any north west company less than three years old and with fewer than 10 employees.

The prize consists of a monthly sales and planning meeting with Neil, weekly one-to-one telephone calls, access to NWC consultancy tools and unique training grids, along with marketing and PR support and on-going mentoring from Neil.

All applications must be received before February 28.

Competition finalists will be invited to present before a panel of experts, including Neil, at the end of April.

For a chance to win £10,000 worth of business support apply at nwcconsultancy.com.