A MUSICIAN has been nominated for a Royal award after launching his business and helping others.

Philip McNally, from Darwen, said he felt ‘hopeless’ after leaving school with no qualifications because he was more ‘musically gifted’.

The 30-year-old has now set up his business helping others in a similar position.

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“I left school without any qualifications and just loved music. I found it hard to get a job that was rewarding and satisfying,” said Philip.

The former Darwen Vale pupil said that he saved £15,000 over seven years to turn his dream of opening a music school into a reality.

He then approached The Prince’s Trust for advice on how to launch his business which is now McNally Music Tuition in Blackburn. More than 100 students are on his books, he employs eight people and also works within the community, teaching people with special needs how to play musical instruments. “I always knew that I wanted a career in music. I worked in retail and for me that wasn’t where I wanted to be. It wasn’t a challenge and it wasn’t me.

“I got in touch with the Prince’s Trust and they were able to offer an additional loan as well as marketing management,” said Philip.

He is one of three people from the north west to be nominated for a NatWest Enterprise Award at The Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success Awards, which is taking place next Thursday.

The award recognises young people who have struggled through difficulties to transform their lives and the lives of others.

He said: “I suppose I have transformed my life because I left school and didn’t really have any direction. If you aren’t academically gifted then it’s harder than ever to get a job.

“I turned my musically gifted talents into a business and now I have been nominated for this award I couldn’t be more pleased.”