A group of enterprising Upminster teens is through to the London final of a start-up competition.

Last Wednesday, Aurelia, the green-fingered business set up by Year 12 students at Sacred Heart of Mary Girls’ School, beat competitors from all over east London to take a place in the regional final in July.

Its “Sow and Grow” seed kit so impressed the Young Enterprise judges in central London that Aurelia took home prizes for best report and best company.

Excited team member Kirsty Adams said: “The completion was fierce – their products were innovative and their sales were high.

“After two hours of pitching our product to Young Enterprise representatives, we were called for an interview with the judges.

“After waiting in the lobby, we were called into the boardroom – the judges were ready to see us. The experience resembled the Apprentice.

“Each company presented in front of an audience of about 100. Nervous though we were, our excitement and enthusiasm carried us through.

“We’re excited for the next round against all of London on July 19 and have aspirations of representing London in the national finals in the following round.”

Sow and Grow is intended to teach youngsters where food comes from, promote healthy eating and bring families together.

The pack includes five packets of seeds, along with pots, compost and a recipe leaflet. To find out more, click on the link to our last story – to the right of the page, below the ads.