A TATTOO artist, who overcame a long battle with mental health issues including mutism, showcased his business to the Prince of Wales.

Scott Heffernan chatted to the royal about Timeless Tattoo, Hammerton Street, Burnley, at the Youth Can Do It event in London to celebrate The Prince's Trust.

Mr Heffernan, from Burnley, started suffering from mental health issues when he left secondary school and became mute. The 33-year-old’s life was a daily battle and he would not speak to anyone and refused to leave his house.

Mr Heffernan decided to take part in The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme in 2014 and his life turned around.

He went on to win the North West Prince’s Trust Enterprise Award last year, which recognises young people who have overcome barriers and achieved success in creating sustainable businesses.

Lancashire Telegraph:

During the event, Mr Heffernan met His Royal Highness as he walked through a pop-up marketplace showcasing a range of businesses which had set up in Mayfair.

Mr Heffernan said: “The help I received from the trust really boosted my confidence.

“I can look back and I’m really happy with how far I have come.

“I now look forward and think about what I can achieve, onwards and upwards as they say.

“Through my business, I’ve managed to help myself and others, while also securing a future for my family.”

The event also marked the 10th anniversary of the trust’s enterprise fellowship, a network of entrepreneurs who are committed to supporting the next generation of business leaders.

Mr Heffernan added: “It was great meeting Prince Charles.

“He was really down to earth and he likes his jokes. We talked for a few minutes about my business and what we do.”

Clare Crabb, north regional director at The Prince’s Trust, said: “Many of the young people we have helped have overcome significant barriers in their lives to get to where they are now."