TALENTED teen entrepreneurs from Poole have won a Company of the Year award for their Young Enterprise business selling seedling trees.

Six students from St. Edwards's School secured the prestigious title of South West Regional Company of the Year for their ‘Growing Memories’ product, which aims to unite families and loved ones by planting a tree - also promoting sustainability.

Their company, Cortex, provides a blue spruce seedling sold in a recycled branded can, together with a kit to make a model of a small woodland hut. The idea is to mark a special occasion by planting a tree and as the tree grows it will remind people of their memories. The budding business minds also expanded into other markets including weddings with ‘Wedding Memories’ and funerals with ‘Loving Memories’.

Cortex managing director, Macaulay Smith, from St Edward’s School, said: “Our product is targeted at families who want to do something different and go outdoors more. Families can plant the tree together and perhaps make the matchstick cabin to go with it as a parent and child activity. The wedding market encourages trees to be planted, which is good for the environment and provides a memory of the happy occasion.”

The competition is organised by Young Enterprise and this year over 300 students took part. Cortex won the Dorset round, and went on to beat seven companies representing the whole of the South West to win the coveted regional award.

Paul Booker, chairman of Young Enterprise Dorset Board, said: “I am always amazed at the commitment and enthusiasm of the students taking part and this year was no exception. The winning company, Cortex, had clearly identified a market opportunity and an emotional message in ‘creating memories’. They are worthy winners indeed.”

The mayor of Poole, Councillor Ann Stribley, said: “I was really impressed by the students. Their passion and enthusiasm for their product was fantastic and I was very proud to be part of their celebrations.”

Councillor Janet Walton, Leader of the Council, Borough of Poole, said: “The Young Enterprise programme is an exciting way for young people to get their first taste of business. The skills and experience they learn during the process stands them in good stead for the future.”

Young Enterprise is the UK’s leading enterprise and financial education charity, offering a range of programmes based on the principle of Learn by Doing. For more see www.young-enterprise.org.uk