Tomasz Putynkowski has overcome health problems and life challenges to set up an accountancy business that is thriving just months after its launch.

He set up JMT Accountancy, based in Fenton Town Hall, in January with two fellow directors. They already have 40 clients on their books.

Tomasz was left bedridden for a year after a car accident seven years ago and suffers recurring health problems.

He had set up True Obsession, an award-nominated natural cosmetics store in Newcastle-under-Lyme, which was forced to close by the effects of the pandemic.

But Tomasz studied accountancy at Newcastle-under-Lyme College, retrained and embarked on a new career.

Now he has been nominated as Entrepreneur of the Year in the Staffordshire University Business Awards by JMT Accountancy co-founder and director Michele Simpson.

Michele said: “He not only is amazing person but his motivation and fight with illness is unbelievable. Tom had a car accident which put him into bed for at least a year around seven years ago.

“To fight with illness, he opened an online business from his bed where in the meantime he studied accountancy to change his career path.

“His health improved so he opened an independent natural cosmetic store in Newcastle. He still carried on studying and working.

“He was extremely good at his job but due to covid he lost his natural cosmetic store and because his treatment was delayed his health deteriorated.

“In the three months since we opened JMT he has managed to attract 39 clients and move the new business from the ground.

“He is still recovering from ill health, he does not give up and is showing amazing strength to fight with illness and not give up his dreams.

“Even when he’s not able to concentrate due to pain and not able to work he does not forget to help others as he is a treasurer for Staffordshire Adults Autistic Society.

“He is the strongest and most motivated person I know. He is a great example of professionalism and dedication to the job.”

Tomasz said he was delighted to have been nominated for an award by his co-founder.