Home care franchise Bluebird Care has presented awards to three of its franchisees. The awards were presented to franchisees in recognition of their success in building thriving businesses in difficult economic times.

Overall winners of the awards were Chris Kendrick-Jones and Paul Haylings. When the business partners set up a Bluebird Care office in Tamworth their office consisted of one desk and three borrowed chairs. Now, nearly two years on, they are running a thriving business from Mile Oak Farm and still experiencing growth, despite the recession.

Best newcomer was awarded to Jane Perry, who decided to take control of her own destiny by setting up her Bluebird Care office in Edinburgh South after receiving her fourth redundancy notice in 20 years. A foster carer, Jane was praised by Bluebird Care's management for her sheer grit, determination and talent - which triumphed in difficult circumstances.

A Spirit of Bluebird Award went to Viv Davies, who owns a Bluebird Care office in Bournemouth. Viv was chosen for his calm spirited personality and ability to keep his cool in times of stress. Bluebird Care was named after the work of Donald Campbell who broke both the world land speed record and the world water speed records in the 1950s and '60s. Managing director Paul Tarsey's family was involved in these and Paul was influenced greatly by Donald Campbell's perseverance against difficult odds. The Spirit of Bluebird Care award is for people who have overcome significant difficulties to succeed.

Published: 28 January 2009

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