BIRKENHEAD based business Owen Drew Luxury Candles was crowned the 'Best Start-Up Business' at this year's Small Awards.

The luxury home fragrance producers were awarded their new title at a ceremony in London on Thursday, May 17.

Owen Drew was founded by Wallasey entrepreneur Drew Cockton, 31, after he began making candles from his home and selling them at craft fairs and on social media.

When Drew noticed the damage that smoke and soot from mass-produced candles were causing to his home, he decided to make his own from natural ingredients which burn with a clean flame.

He now creates a range of products including scented candles, room sprays and sleep aids.

The business has grown so rapidly in 18 months that Drew now employs eight people including three apprentices all working out of a small factory in Birkenhead.

Owen Drew have fans from across the globe and even has a celebrity fan in hotel heiress Paris Hilton, who has posted pictures of the candles on her social media accounts.

Judges described the business as 'inspiring' and a 'role model for other new businesses'.

Drew told the Globe: "We are absolutely delighted to have received this coveted prize.

"It’s wonderful that our hard work has been recognised.

"The judges said that our charity work and commitment to ethical business practices was a huge factor in their selecting us."

“It’s incredibly exciting to imagine where we will be this time in twelve months.

"Fingers crossed, things will continue to grow and grow."

Drew will share the secrets of his success at an event hosted by Santander in their Birkenhead branch on May 23 along with other entrepreneurs.

For more information please visit https://owendrewcandles.com