A Cardigan businessman has been selected as one of six people from across Wales to become an Entrepreneurship Champion to the Welsh Government.

Ben Giles, of Ultima Cleaning has joined the team set up by business minister Edwina Hart.

Ben, who left school at 15 to start a window-cleaning round, has since set up multiple successful and highly innovative businesses. He still retains his original window cleaning business, while he now also employs 70 people in his cleaning and training businesses.

He and the rest of the Champions team will be providing guidance on entrepreneurship policy to the Welsh Government.

Edwina Hart said: “Entrepreneurs are essential for developing a strong economy, building companies and helping to spread prosperity and create jobs.

“We want to encourage and support entrepreneurs in Wales and the Champions will advise on what support is needed to help start-up and small firms with real potential to thrive and grow and how the Welsh Government can embed an entrepreneurial culture in Wales.

“I am grateful for the enthusiastic support of these individuals who have built up extremely successful businesses and are willing to give their time and energy to drive this important section of the economy forward.”

The Champions will form a voluntary network, meeting three times a year and speaking at several key events in Wales to promote entrepreneurship and inspire others to consider the entrepreneurship path into business.

They were selected through an open procurement process via Sell2Wales and press advertisements that attracted 48 potential candidates.