A Battersea entrepreneur says she would have given up on her business if it wasn’t for a national charity and crucial financial support.

Sarah Watkinson-Yull, of Bridges Court Road, took part in The Prince's Trust Enterprise programme and launched her business, Yull Shoes, in 2011 and credits it for her current success.

But it was when she discovered The Samuel Wilson's Trust and the business growth loan that also made a critical difference.

The 28-year-old said: “The enterprise programme was incredibly valuable in helping me to launch my business and connecting me with other like-minded people launching their own businesses, giving me a strong support network in the city.

“Business had been going well, but I needed to access additional finance for sample designs and to secure international suppliers.

“So when I heard about the opportunity to apply for additional funding, I knew I had to jump at the chance.

With the business growth loan, Yull Shoes has developed relationships in Belgium, France and Ireland, and has plans to expand its distribution network to Germany and the United States.

“I can honestly say I think I would have given up launching my business if it wasn’t for support from The Prince’s Trust.

"Having The Prince's Trust support me every step of the way and pushing me out of my comfort zone has been so valuable.

“I would say to anyone with a business idea that The Prince’s Trust is a great place to start.”

A Samuel Wilson’s Loan Trust spokeswoman said: “We are delighted to hear about the exciting developments with Sarah’s business, following her successful application for a business growth loan from Samuel Wilson’s Loan Trust.

“We look forward to working with more creative and innovative businesses in the months to come, supporting sustainable business growth and young entrepreneurs.”

The Prince's Trust is a national youth charity which has now partnered with The Samuel Wilson's Loan Trust to launch a pilot programme which enables young entrepreneurs to access low interest business growth loans and a mentor.

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