Matthew, 27, from Glutton Bridge near Buxton, has been learning his trade by working alongside his stonemason cousin, and last year he felt the time was right to branch out on his own.

To give his new venture a helping hand, Matthew turned to the Prince's Trust for extra financial support and advice and his business is now thriving.

The Prince's Trust receives an annual grant towards the running costs of its business programme from the county council, and helps young people setting up new enterprises.

The trust helps people find appropriate business skills training covering essentials like book-keeping, drawing up a business plan and financial planning, as well as offering mentors who give one-to-one-support and advice.

Although Matthew had saved money to set up, he needed extra financial help as well as business advice, and a grant and a loan from the trust helped him to buy a new van and pay for initial advertising.

M Watson Stonemasonry has now been up and running since January and already Matthew has a list of successful builds under his belt including garden walls, patios and a garage.

Matthew said: "Setting up a new business is quite daunting though and when I heard about the Prince's Trust and the help they can give I thought it sounded like a good idea. I would recommend young people to go to them for support and advice if they are thinking of setting up their own business."

He added: "As well as the financial support you get a mentor who volunteers their services to the trust. My mentor has been brilliant and is giving me on-going support, helping me to do my books so I keep on top of everything. It's a great scheme."

Derbyshire County Council cabinet member for regeneration Councillor Geoff Carlile said: "Having seen Matthew's work at first hand, and his enthusiasm and determination to make it work, I'm sure his business will be highly successful."

Co-ordinator for the Prince's Trust in North Derbyshire Mark Rushworth said: "We are really pleased with the support and encouragement given by Councillor Carlile and Derbyshire County Council in supporting our work with young people.

"The council's annual grant goes towards covering the running costs of our business programme across the county."