A MAN has won a national small business award for his assistance with professional and amateur artists.

Adrian Storey, originally from Colchester, set up his own digital printing company after he was laid off from his employer during the UK recession in 2009.

With the help of St Helens Chamber of Commerce, he founded JAK Fine Art from his home in Garswood, where he has lived for the past 21 years.

Scanning and printing digital copies for a range of designs, he has built a portfolio of work that has assisted a wide collection of artists in their creative endeavors.

His pristine work then enables the artists to display or sell their work on a wider scale.

After being shortlisted for a Fine Art Trade Guild Award on a number of occasions, Adrian took home the Small Business Customer Service Award on Saturday, May 14.

Voted for by artists and customers, the award win highlights the effort and dedication that Adrian puts in for each customer and every design.

St Helens Star: Adrian set up his business in Garswood in 2009Adrian set up his business in Garswood in 2009

Adrian, 53, said: "I've always been involved in the print industry but looked to create my own company once I was made redundant in 2009.

"I print work from a range of styles and techniques and cover anything from amateurs to professionals.

"It's great to get to meet the artists and hear the stories behind their work,  and it's nice to be recognised for this work after being shortlisted a few times."