RETAILERS in Knowsley have the chance to win rent-free premises in Prescot for an entire year.

Investment charity One Ark is offering enthusiastic retailers the chance to enter its second Win a Shop competition following its successful launch in 2013.

The winner of the competition will receive a fully refurbished shop in Prescot Shopping Centre which they can operate rent-free.

The successful business will also benefit from extensive mentoring and support from organisations, including One Ark, Knowsley Council and Merseyside Special Investment Fund, as well as receiving membership of Knowsley Chamber of Commerce.

To secure this treasured prize, the winning applicant is required to demonstrate an enterprising, unique and independent offering, which will create employment opportunities and attract shoppers to Prescot town centre.

They will also have to impress the judges with their savvy, entrepreneurial attitude.

The entry process is split into three stages, beginning with an expression of interest whereby applicants have to provide an overview of their business plan.

Selected entries will then submit a full and comprehensive application, which will be reviewed by a panel of business experts.

And the final stage takes the form of a ‘Dragons Den’ style interview with the panel, from which a winner will be chosen.

Last year’s winner Cheryl Mullins, owner of furniture upcycling shop Grace Lea, will be among the judging panel.

Executive director at One Ark, Tony Cahill, said: “This second opportunity for an inspiring Knowsley retailer to Win a Shop builds on the commitment we have to creating strong communities and economic growth within the borough.

Competition entries have now opened and businesses have until Friday, October 17 to express an interest in taking part.

To enter the Win a Shop competition, or to find out more about One Ark, please visit http://www.one-ark.co.uk/winashop.html.