A Warwickshire woman aiming to set up a school to teach poultry husbandry has plucked some sound business start-up advice from Enterprise Link.

Despite personal setbacks Rona Knight, of Willicote, south Warwickshire, is now in the early stages of setting up her school and is looking to have a grand opening in May to coincide with a major pig and poultry fair.

To avoid failing foul of any unsound business advice she turned to Enterprise Link at Business Link Coventry & Warwickshire, who gave her start-up and marketing guidance.

They were also instrumental in arranging for Rona to attend a number of seminars on business awareness, where, amongst other things she learnt about auditing.

Her teaching methods on how to raise chickens are very much 'back to basics'. She says that whilst technology has its place in the industry, the use of 'hands on' experience and personal instincts should not be forgotten.

Rona, who also breeds chickens for the meat trade at her farm, where she lives with her son, said:

"I was shown how to put ideas into practice and make them a reality.

"Without the help of Enterprise Link I would not be as far down the road as I am now."

A recent accident, which has left her son paralysed from the chest down, has resulted in Rona converting her house. This will also mean she can offer disabled students the opportunity of attending her school.

David Stead, business councillor at Business Link Coventry & Warwickshire, said:

"Rona has shown real dedication in triumphing despite her problems. She now has a sound business awareness which she is employing to good effect."