Partner Article

Entrepreneur pumps for success

A young entrepreneur has developed a maritime safety device that could be used by boat enthusiasts worldwide. Andrew Edgeworth, from Darlington, believes BilgeWatch 8 will become an essential piece of kit for boat owners.

The electronic device, developed by the 22-year-old’s company Celectron, monitors the activity of a boat’s automatic bilge pump. The device indicates whether a boat’s pumps are operating more frequently than normal, drawing the owner’s attention to signs of developing faults.

Mr Edgeworth has received financial backing from the North East England Investment Centre (NEEIC) to drive on his business. He said: “It is an extremely important piece of marine safety equipment and I truly believe that all boat owners should possess it. The sky is the limit. I hope to grow the company at a consistent rate, promoting the product and adding new ones to the portfolio.

“I want to take the business worldwide, becoming a trusted and recognised name within the industry.”

Mr Edgeworth was confident his device would do well in spite of the credit crunch, as it could end up saving boat owners money by preventing sinkings.

He said: “Taking a chance on a new business is always seen as a risk, especially in today’s climate. However, with detailed research into the marketplace, the right support, solid funding and a product that I believe is essential, I am extremely confident that BilgeWatch 8 will be a success.”

The bilge is the lowest compartment on a ship and water collects there which must be pumped out, otherwise the vessel can sink.

Further details on the device are available at celectron.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .