A CWMBRAN entrepreneur has proved that age is no barrier after turning her hobby into her very own business.

Earlier this year aged 63, Dot Johnson from Thornhill was made redundant from her role at an education training company, which had lost a significant contract.

Undeterred and spurred on by her children, she turned her passion for baking into a business creating Dot’s Cakes, which supplies treats for special occasions.

“I’m a doer and when I was made redundant I couldn’t just let the grass grow under my feet,” she said.

“I have always been a keen baker in my spare time, and people have been telling me for years that I should be selling my cakes.”

After receiving careers advice for budding entrepreneurs living in Communities First within the borough, she was able to get her business off the ground.

“I was put in touch with the council through Careers Wales and the support I have received has been fantastic,” added Mrs Johnson.

“They helped me write and develop a business plan, and secure a weekly Wednesday slot in Pontypool Indoor Market.

“They also helped with publicity, producing business cards and flyers to help promote my business, and put me in touch with Santander bank, which has schemes to help new businesses.”

Further support was provided by Torfaen Effect, a panel of volunteers drawn from the Torfaen business community who provide free, confidential support and advice.

Richard Murphy from Communities First said: “Dot is an inspiration. Being made redundant late in life is not easy, but she has risen to the challenge and is quickly building up a following of regular customers.

“Communities First areas are some of the most deprived communities in the country with high levels of unemployment, however, there are many people in these communities that have valuable skills and expertise, and just need some support to turn these skills into a business.

“With additional support from the council and Torfaen Effect we can offer a full package of business support and I would urge anyone with a business idea to get in touch to see how we may be able to help.”

For information contact Richard Murphy on 01495 742894 or Richard.murphy@torfaen.gov.uk