Young businessmen set an example

Brothers Daniel and Rory Clifford were 15 and 18 when they decided to launch their own business last March.

A year later, R&D Sports in St Leonards Road is thriving.

Daniel, of Collington Lane East, said: "It's been a learning curve. I didn't have a great deal of knowledge about buying, selling or being a manager.

"We learned every day, and our parents have always been there to support us.

"We've come on leaps and bounds."

Rory, now 19, had his first job working for the shop when it was called Final Score in 2007.

He said: "I worked in Bexhill, Heathfield and Uckfield for them. But having my own business has always been something I wanted to do.

"The opportunity arose because the owner was stopping, so me and my younger brother decided to take it on.

"We had business advice from an uncle who has two framing shops in Tonbridge Wells, and we both owe thanks to our parents. It was certainly tricky to start with."

Daniel balances his role as business partner with studying music at Eastbourne Vocational College. Both brothers are keen sportsmen outside of work and have strong links with local clubs and educational institutions.

Glenco Football Club, Little Common and Bexhill Cricket Clubs and Hastings and Bexhill Rugby Clubs all support their business, and a discount is offered to members of any local sports club.

Promotions tying in with sporting seasons are also common, such as the new range of cricket goods the pair have chosen.

Two work experience students from St Mary's Special School in Wrestwood Road come to the shop each week to help out and learn about the business.

Daniel said: "They're both footballers themselves, they play for Brighton and Hove Specials."

Rory said: "Things we think set us apart are a new system we're working on to get video analysis in the shop, so runners can learn more about their style. We can also order stock in at very little cost with next-day delivery.

"We're very positive considering there's a recession on. We're working hard and keeping our heads above water."