Graham trades on snooker's success (From Barry And District News)

Graham trades on snooker's success

A BARRY dad has made it through to the final 30 in a national business award for people who overcame barriers to succeed.

Father-of-two Graham Smith started his Phoenix Snooker Services off Palmerston Road, Barry less than a year ago.

He was given support from the Enterprise Rehearsal Scheme, run by the Wales Co-operative, and the local Enterprise Agency, Business in Focus, who provide financial assistance and on-going practical advice, and opened the business in November last year.

The 45-year-old from Windsor Road, said: "My son is very keen to join the business when he leaves school. Josh is 15 and wants to follow in my footsteps. Eventually I want to expand and employ more people."

He followed the family tradition when he left school at 15 to start an apprenticeship with EJ Riley, the snooker table manufacturers. He spent ten years with them, and another ten working on the circuit and travelling world-wide.

His father contracted cancer so he gave up work to look after his children and parents.

Graham plans to be in a position to employ and train others, including his son, in a trade that has given him the chance to rebuild his life while caring for his family.

The Trading Places Awards were launched last month by the Depart-ment for Work and Pensions New Deal programme, Business Link and The Prince's Trust.

He said: "I love my profession because I can see the enjoyment people get out of one of the tables I renovate. A lot of people are building extensions specifically for tables to be housed."

His business will now go before the judging panel who will select 12 National Finalists, all of whom will receive £1000 for their business.