FORMER international table tennis star Grant Solder has been crowned Britain's Best Local Business.The hard-working 36-year-old businessman was thrilled to win the title in our brilliant Barclays-backed competition.
The Grant Solder Sports Agency provides coaches, mentors, course planning, structuring and management to schools, youth clubs, and local authorities.
Grant was one of nine regional finalists to be judged by a panel of experts led by Theo Paphitis, star of TV hit Dragons' Den and boss of the High Street stationery chain Ryman.
Grant was awarded a trophy and cheque for ?20,000 plus a mentoring session with Theo.
Afterwards he said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been recognised as running Britain's Best Local Business.
"It's a real honour. I have always been proud of the work and achievements of our agency and this is the icing on the cake for all the long hours and dedication that goes into our work."
Grant, who lives in Gidea Park, Essex with his partner Kelly and their nine-year-old son Bailey, launched the business ten years ago with the aim of supplying table tennis coaches to East London schools.
But now through his website grantsoldersportsagency.com they supply experts in activities ranging from football to cheer-leading, scuba diving and kickboxing across the capital.
The agency provides an income for 40 coaches it commissions on a project-by-project basis to work with up to 50 schools and organisations - and they are looking to recruit more.
Grant represented England at table tennis for nine years and was also a coach to the national junior team.
He loves to work at grass roots level, introducing sport with high coaching standards into challenging areas in London, where he delivers tangible results.
His staff have been told that as a result of their coaching, schools start to see improved behaviour, concentration and attendance.
The business is not all about profit for Grant. Agency coaches will often work at cost price or go to work in the community or on charity days for free.
And now, after speaking with Theo, he is looking to expand and roll out the agency nationwide.
Rashid Benallal, who nominated Grant's agency in the competition, said: "Their work breeds success, confidence, communication, organisation, discipline and many more skills which are transferable in future jobs.
"One of the main focuses and incredible accomplishments has been through table tennis.
"This scheme was set up at Morpeth Secondary School seven years ago and encouraged children from all backgrounds and religions.
"Bangladeshi Muslim girls have been inspired, which is a huge achievement because they rarely participate in sport due to cultural differences. The scheme has created many success stories, for example getting kids off the street to achieve success in sport and winning titles.
"In light of these successes, the table tennis team has had opportunities to present to the Prime Minister for the Olympic Games bid and even for the Queen.
"Many jobs have been created for previous players at the school, which has a significant impact in helping the younger squad to develop.
"This has led the scheme to expand to primary schools and allow more coaching from ex-pupils."
Theo said: "This business was selected for its hard work and determination to make a difference in East London.
"We were particularly impressed that the business is providing an outlet for underprivileged youngsters to access sport.
"It was felt that this business was helping develop our next generation of communities with the aim of improving the community spirit in tougher locations."
Deanna Oppenheimer, Chief Executive, Barclays UK Retail Banking, said: "This campaign with The Sun has shown how passionate many people are for their local business.
"More than 4,000 people nominated businesses that, time and again, have gone the extra mile and beyond.
"We have heard amazing stories, from the chemist who personally delivered medicines in the snow, to the hairdresser who puts on fashion shows for charity.
"It's an honour to help tell these stories. More and more, I realise this competition hasn't been just about great businesses, but great people."
Steve Cooper, Managing Director of Local Business at Barclays, said: "I was blown away by the regional and national winners.
"These businesses have a huge impact on their local communities, both in providing jobs and in bringing people together."
"These local business owners make it clear that, though the economic environment is tough, our entrepreneurs have the passion and commitment to come through with flying colours.
"Congratulations from Barclays to the winners, and all who took part or were nominated in the campaign."
Source: http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/money/backingbritbiz/2526831/Ping-gong-for-coaching-guru.html
