A Weston College student is celebrating the success of his flourishing coach travel business that he started at 13 years old and which is now set to go international.
Ian Banwell, who is still only 17, employs six people in his business, Banwell South West, which offers day trips for the over 50s.
He is still so young he cannot even drive and he’s too busy with his business to take lessons.
The teenager launched Banwell South West five years ago when the coach firm his grandmother, Joan, enjoyed trips with folded.
Despite being just 13 he has gained a loyal clientele with his carefully organised weekly trips around the South West, Windsor, London and Christmas markets.
Now he has nearly 4,500 customers and just signed a contract with Crosville Motor Services in Weston to launch holidays in the UK and Europe.
Ian said: “The business has flourished. I go on each trip myself to ensure they run smoothly and get to really know my customers. I’ll sometimes visit them between trips for a cup of tea and check on how they are.
“However, they all seem to think I am much older than 17, in fact one thought I was over 40.”
Weston College Principal, Dr Paul Phillips, OBE, said: “The focus of our College is about securing dynamic futures for our learners. Ian has demonstrated that he has both the determination and entrepreneurship to succeed in today’s business community. Each year we meet many people like Ian who realise their ambition and become an example for other students.”
To contact Banwell South West telephone 01934 835 275 or email info@banwells@ymail.com
For courses at Weston College call 01934 411 411 or go to www.weston.ac.uk
