BUDDING entrepreneurs have been offered a huge boost in their quest to start a business.

People with brilliant business ideas have been invited to pitch them to a Dragons’ Den-style panel of judges in a Worcester News-backed competition.

The winner of the Dragons’ Lair competition will receive an incredible prize – a shop within Worcester’s Reindeer Court shopping centre free of rent, rates and service charges for three months.

The shopping centre is in a prime site at the heart of the city centre, off the Shambles, and set in a former coaching inn.

Over the years it has become a haven for browsers who wander around its independent or specialist shops, cafes and bars.

The prize winner will have a unique opportunity to launch their business in a busy part of the city without the usual barrier of having to find a sizeable sum to set up their shop before they start trading.

Anthony Walker, of Macarthur Wilson, which runs the centre’s lettings, said: “We think this is a great idea which will hopefully inspire budding local entrepreneurs, providing a unique opportunity to put their ideas into practice, in what is still a tough economic climate.”

Worcester News editor Peter John said: “We are delighted to be involved in such an innovative project with such a great prize.

“Worcester is no different from any other part of this country in desperately needing entrepreneurs to come through to create the jobs we so urgently need.

“It’s a great opportunity for someone with a good business idea to take the plunge and turn their idea into reality.”

To enter, fill in the coupon below and send it with an explanation of no more than 250 words outlining your business idea and why you think it will succeed.

Entries should be sent to Alicia Kelly, Worcester News, Berrows House, Hylton Road, Worcester, WR2 5JX.

• Click here for the coupon dragons' lair.pdf