BUSINESS mentors in Airedale have helped a new entrepreneur turn a holiday idea into a new retail business.

Nicola Jankowicz opened Geek Uneek, a toy and gift shop in Skipton, after seeing an alternative range of items on sale while on holiday in Florida.

With no previous business experience, Nicola researched the start-up process and found Airedale Enterprise Services in Keighley where she was guided by business mentor David Gagen. He helped her write a business plan and provided advice and support when needed.

Nicola started trading online and worked full-time at a local private hospital before opening her shop in Craven Court.

She said: “Leaving my job was the hardest part. I enjoyed what I was doing but just had to give the shop a go. Craven Court is a beautiful shopping court and has many different shops. It attracts visitors and tourists year-round and always has something going on. This is exactly what I was looking for and to date, feedback has been very positive”

“My children and husband have supported me throughout the whole process and enjoy coming to the shop to see what new products have come in. The business is still very much in its infancy but I already feel a huge sense of achievement.”

Geek Uneek specialises in selling Funko POP! vinyl figures and bobble-heads as well as clothing from popular films and TV series.