Kenilworth sisters get business boost from former Dragon's Den star Theo Paphitis

Two sisters from Kenilworth who set up a business have received a boost from entrepreneur and former Dragon’s Den star Theo Paphitis.

Ciara and Seanna Hamill of SanHanzUK, tweeted Theo about their business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and were announced as one of six winners across the UK.

The weekly initiative was set up by Theo in 2010 to support small businesses in the UK.

Not only did Theo tweet his support for Ciara and Senna’s message to his thousands of followers but as a result, they are also profiled on the Small Business Sunday (#SBS) website (www.theopaphitissbs.com) that is exclusive to all the winners past and present.

Ciara and Seanna said: “We’ve only been operating for seven weeks and it is great to have support from Theo because it’s been tough trying to raise our profile and Theo has recognised our hard work and helped spread the word about what we do to his following.

“At 17 and 19 we have become the youngest ever winners – it’s astonishing.”

The sister’s started their business venture after they were so concerned that their key worker mum could not buy hand sanitiser at the outbreak of the coronavirus.

So they took matters into their own hands and set up their own company,which has been helping people across the community.

Theo Paphitis, said: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK.

"My vision is that everyone who has ever won becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings.

"The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish SanHanzUK every success.”

Ciara and Seanna have been also invited to attend a black-tie event in Birmingham next year to meet with Theo and other guests in recognition of their efforts.

They added: "We want to thank all the good people of Kenilworth that have supported our efforts especially Kenilworth Rugby Club, Louise at Kenilworth Vibes, Darren Rees and the members of the Covid Support group that do such an amazing job for our local community.

"We remain a not for profit business and ensure proceeds support our local foodbank and we continue to supply local schools and frontline workers with free product.

"Kenilworth is such a caring place and when we deliver our product in the local community, we meet some fantastic people.

"This scourge has brought out the best in Kenilworth."

For more information about SanHanzUK email: [email protected] or call: 07827 012545