Swallow your nerves to get the taste of success

Apr 28 2008 by Karen Dent, The Journal

A CAFE owner has urged other people to swallow their nerves and follow their dream of starting their own business.

Jean Clift used more that two decades of experience in the catering trade as a foundation for setting up the Lemongrass Cafe in Boldon, but admitted she was worried about going it alone.

The 53-year-old from Newcastle sought help from South Tyneside Means Business when she was considering setting up the cafe last year. The organisation helped her with a £2,950 business start-up grant and a £5,000 loan, and she also received practical help from business support organisation Tedco.

South Tyneside Means Business has three offices in South Shields, Hebburn and Jarrow where people can seek advice on starting their business.

Jean said: “They helped me source appropriate funding, talk to the people with the right advice and contacts and most importantly, grew my confidence so I could make those first nerve-wracking steps to grow the business.

“The whole experience has been very challenging but if you can get over the initial nerves and fear of seeking help, the rewards can be extremely satisfying.

“I am proud to say that I have done this all myself, I would advise others to swallow all those fears and go for it.”

The business, which opened in June last year, has provided jobs for two people. One of the staff members had been unemployed and claiming benefits before being taken on at the cafe, which is based in Boldon’s Quadrus Centre.

As well as selling hot and cold food, the cafe operates an outside catering service for businesses in South Tyneside.