Exciting news for Blue Ventures as its founders Tom Savage and Alasdair Harris received Special Commendation in Social and Community category.

Twenty-four finalists from across the UK gave presentations to the judges in a ‘X Factor’-style, as part of a flagship Enterprise Week event run by the Make Your Mark campaign which recognises young people who have turned their ideas into reality.   

Chancellor Gordon Brown said; ‘All of the finalists are winners – they are creating new opportunities and advancing new ideas to create an enterprising society.  Do not underestimate the power you have to encourage others – you are making your mark by showing that enterprise is changing the face of Britain.’ 

Kevin Steele, of the Make your Mark campaign and competition organiser, said, 'All of the finalists in today's Enterprising Young Brits competition are truly inspirational young people and we wish all of them well for future.  I am sure we will be seeing a lot more of all of today’s finalists as their enterprises continue to flourish and their stories will inspire many others to make their mark.'

The finalists had to overcome several hurdles to get to the final round.  Entries were discussed by the judging panel which included Kevin Steele, Chief Executive of the Make Your Mark – start talking ideas campaign, Emily Eavis, Music Coordinator at Glastonbury Festival, Al Gosling, Chief Executive of the Extreme Group, Martin Wyn Griffith, Chief Executive of the Small Business Service and representatives from Lloyds TSB, Daily Mail, and HM Treasury.

Enterprise Week (14-20 November) is a national celebration of enterprise, with over 2,000 events taking place throughout the UK.  Anyone interested in finding out more about the Make Your Mark – start talking ideas campaign and what happened during Enterprise Week should go to www.starttalkingideas.org