New Business gives Jonathan successful ‘try’!  

An ex-professional rugby player is tackling a new challenge as he gets into training to launch his new business.

Backed by the North East BIC, Jonathan Dye (25) from Houghton le Spring, has launched Reel Videos, specialising in filming weddings and special occasions.

Jonathan recently decided to hang up his rugby boots and start in business after receiving the devastating news that his dream of playing professional rugby at the highest level had come to a cruel end, as he explains:

“Prior to starting my business, I played professional rugby for Darlington Molden Park - a well respected league 3 side. However, I picked up a serious injury to my hip during a game last year and after receiving extensive physiotherapy a specialist informed me that my rugby career was over.

“Initially I struggled to come to terms with the injury but with the support of my family I decided to pursue an alternative career and set up Reel Videos.”

As a first step to setting up in business, Jonathan attended the New Entrepreneur Scholarship (NES) programme – a free part-time business development programme for people wanting to start and manage their own business.

Jonathan found the NES course, run by the BIC, a great confidence booster which helped him to cement his long term plans.

Jonathan said: “Attending the NES programme was very worthwhile, and gave me a new confidence. I received lots of practical advice on not only starting a business, but also on finance and book-keeping, marketing and research.”

He added: “ Rugby has always been my number one passion and it was my dream to play in the Premier League. However, I also have a lifelong interest in videography and am determined not to get left on the sidelines!”

After finishing the NES programme, Jonathan received further business start up advice from the BIC business adviser Margaret Cook.

Margaret said: “Jonathan is one of the most enthusiastic and friendly individuals I have ever met. Passion and enthusiasm is a must for a small business to succeed – Jonathan has them in abundance.”