A TALENTED New Cumnock student was left stunned after being given thousands of pounds to kick start his dream career.

Bryan Shaw, 25, was awarded a funding boost of £5,000 to launch his photography and videography business 1815 Media.

The thrilled student who is studying for his HNC was left thrilled when The Ayrshire College Foundation recognised his talent and awarded him the generous grant.

The aim is to help students develop their enterprising skills, the college is working in partnership with Bridge 2 Business to support idea development.

They can access the support and advice needed at the early stages of planning a business, during regular one to one sessions on campus.

This is the first time a full-time enterprise programme executive has been based in a college.

There are currently 97 students working on a business plan.

Those who complete the plan to a high standard, go forward to a judging panel, and if successful, will be awarded grant funding.

Bryan said: “I have turned a hobby into a career.

“My college lecturers have inspired me by pushing me further, and they have really developed my potential.

“I’ve had so much encouragement to create a business plan, and it’s helped build up my confidence and believe in myself.

“The whole experience has prepared me for life after college, and raised my aspirations to go further and higher.”

Tracey Stark, Chair of the Ayrshire College Foundation said, “It has been positive and uplifting to see the level of interest from students who want to start theirown business.

“We were impressed with the high standard of entries, the variety of business ideas, and the passion and energy from all these students. These students are studying full-time, some have part-time jobs or family commitments, and they are working all hours to get their business off the ground. The grants will provide the help they need to get started or to develop their business further. It’s been a privilege to be able to support these young people at this stage in their careers, and make their business dreams a reality.

“It just shows, whoever you are or wherever you come from, if you really believe you can do it, you can.”