David and Dawn Jarvis, who run the Oscar Pet Food franchise in the Hastings area, defied the sceptics and scooped a highly commended award in the HSBC Franchisee of the Year awards.

When they took on the franchise, Oscar Pet Foods managing director Martin Dancy said they would prove either "a dismal failure or a roaring success".

Mr Dancy was unsure their backgrounds would be suitable.

David had been made redundant after a 23-year career in banking and had no previous experience with animals.

Dawn had worked in the office of her parents' clock-making business before becoming a mother and housewife.

Four years later, their business has a thriving turnover, with David also working part-time as a consultant advising other franchisees in the network.

David said: "Four years in franchising has shown us that it is nearly always those that follow the system who are successful.

"We have had a proven system to follow that prevented us making any costly mistakes."

Dawn added: "Our quality of life has greatly improved through our success. The business has given us much more confidence through the variety of experience and life skills that we've learned."