Cash boost for Sheffield graduate - graduate jobs

A Yorkshire university has awarded a former pupil £5,000 after she won a business start-up challenge.

Sheffield Hallam University graduate Andrew Asquith and his business partner Ollie Hemstock were given the cash prize by Andrew's alma mater for coming first in its annual Enterprise Challenge.

The two entrepreneurs won with their business Highball Climbing and were presented with the award by comedian Ruby Wax

Highball Climbing constructs bouldering and rock climbing walls and boasts a unique free-standing training wall.

The award will afford the enterprising duo the opportunity to access advice and support which will let them strengthen and develop their business.

Mr Asquith, 24, said: "To win this has been a fantastic achievement and the prize money will be very helpful. We have worked really hard and done a lot towards winning, especially working on our presentation for the judges."

Their mentor, Peter Rawlinson, said: "We are keen to support all innovative new businesses like Highball Climbing."

He added that the prize will allow the business to develop and enter the market.

Mr Rawlinson said: "They have done so much in promoting their business and in trying to impress the judges. We are very excited about helping them to develop their business in the future."