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Former TV and NHS worker launches Leeds oven valeting business

A former TV technician and NHS worker, who spent 12 weeks working as a locum for the York and Scarborough Hospital Trust during the current pandemic crisis, is launching his own oven valeting business.

Dean Chew previously worked as a sub-contractor for the then owner of Ovenu Leeds North West, Richard Greenwood.

From the outset he was determined to fulfill his dream of running his own business and the opportunity arose just prior to the outbreak of the pandemic.

Faced with being unable to clean ovens during the lockdown period, Dean instead used his previous experience as an NHS orthopaedic plaster technician to work on behalf of the trust.

He spent 12 weeks at the trust before completing his franchisee training via video conferencing and, with the easing of restrictions and a growth in client confidence, is now looking forward to becoming his own boss.

As well as his career with the NHS, Dean also spent 19 years as a stage technician in the theatre and with Opera North and Northern Ballet, plus a further three years working in TV props departments.

He said: “As a sub-contractor the thought of having my own franchise one day always spurred me on, this is a massive move for me and a huge opportunity.

“I will also benefit from being able to work on my doorstep and come home to my family every night.

“Whilst I enjoyed returning to my old profession at the NHS during the crisis, I am keen to get back out to work, meeting customers old and new, and start building up my own business.”

Rik Hellewell, founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, said: “Dean’s return to the front line of the NHS during these challenging times is testament to his caring character.

“This together with his experience as an Ovenu sub-contractor will stand him in good stead to run and grow this successful franchise and I look forward to supporting him build up his business.”

The Ovenu valeting process involves dismantling key components of an oven and placing them into a design registered tank, using non-caustic cleaning products.

Leeds North West covers Horsforth, Yeadon, Pudsey, Farsley, Morley, Swillington, Rothwell, Ilkley, Guiseley, Otley and surrounding areas.

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