A TEENAGER has set up his own design company just months after leaving college and without formal training.

Daniel Wilson, who is just 19, founded North Summit Website and Marketing in Haslingden four months ago and has already created websites for multinational companies.

His parents Paul and Kaye own business premises on Blackburn Road, and offered Daniel free use of the office.

And now he has an expanding client base, including the Zinlynna pizzeria on Deardengate, Vineyard Wine Merchant in Ramsbottom, A1 Skip Hire in Clayton-le-Moors, Rawtenstall estate agents Farrow & Farrow, and Wilsons Ranges and Stoves in Haslingdon.

Further afield, he also works with children's clothing supplier Lula Sapphire and artist Janina Cebertowicz.

Daniel said: “My parents bought the former garage in August 2007 and I started at Haslingden High School in the September.

“I designed their business website for Wilson’s Ranges and Stoves when I was 12.

“I stayed on at Haslingden and completed my GCSEs and AS levels but didn’t want to go to university because I didn’t want the debt.

“When I was in sixth form my parents wanted to sell online so I designed the online retail side of the business.”

The self-taught web designer also produces marketing posters, designs logos and business cards.

He said: “All the work I have done for other people I have learnt how to do myself. I have also listened and learnt from others mistakes and have the support of my family.”

Since setting up the company he has worked for many businesses across Rossendale from a restaurant to a baby clothing seller, a wine retailer to a swimming club.

He works with businesses to improve their website offering hosting and management.

Daniel said: “I like to go out and get a snapshot of a client’s business, to work out exactly what they want their website to do and then balance it with how I see their business.

“You have a finite time to get someone hooked when they look on your website, if it is too complicated or doesn’t work then people will just look elsewhere.”