YOUNG Exmoor entrepreneurs could see their dreams come true by applying for this year’s Exmoor Society Pinnacle Youth Award, which offers up to £7,000 for the brightest new business idea.

Now open for entries from applicants aged 18 to 35 years, the award will go to an individual or group who either already run or are developing a business based on Exmoor.

Previous recipients say the support can be truly life-changing.

Past winners have come from a wide range of backgrounds, including farming, forestry, mountain biking, and the food and drink sector.

An Exmoor Society spokesperson said: “As a conservation body, we fully recognise how important it is that young people are able to build their futures on Exmoor.

“The award champions the belief that thriving livelihoods and beautiful national park landscapes go hand in hand.”

Kieran Ash, founder of Ash Agri, won last year’s award for his innovative scheme involving the use of a seed box attachment on his grass harrow, enabling sustainable, minimum-tillage sowing of wildflower and herbal mixes to improve soil health.

Other previous winners have included Serena Colwill, who runs a farm school near Exford to teach children how to conserve and respect the Exmoor landscape, and Oliver Hill, from Wheddon Cross, who won the award with Hillbilly Haircuts, which provides a shearing service across Exmoor for some 15,000 sheep and continues to grow.

Private chef Caroline Westcott carried off her prize to further develop her catering business.

She had acquired a refrigerated trailer which allowed her to cater for a greater number of people, including at outdoor events, and to further her brand, publicity, and range of eclectic menus.

To enter, visit the Exmoor Society website and complete the online application form.

The closing date is Monday, August 31.

More information is available by emailing [email protected] or calling 01398 323335.