Young entrepreneurs from schools across south Buckinghamshire proved they had what it takes during a trade fair at Eden Shopping Centre this week.

The students battled it out to be crowned the winner of the Eden Best Trade Stand, showing off their carefully sourced and made products, thought out business plans and sales techniques.

This year, John Hampden Grammar School’s ‘Blank’ company scooped the top prize after seeing off competition from seven other schools.

Rebecca Ward, spokesman for Eden Shopping Centre, said: “Eden Shopping Centre has a long tradition of supporting the Young Enterprise trade fair, and every year we’re incredibly impressed with the standard of business ideas and the way that students implement them.

“This year’s event was a huge success and we’d like to congratulate the winners of the Eden Best Trade Stand, ‘Blank’ for their hard work and enthusiasm in promoting their range of products.”

The team behind Blank – one of two JHGS businesses involved – were praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm for their products.

Judges also commended them for demonstrating the best attitude towards interacting with potential customers.

The John Hampden boys beat off strong competition from the Wycombe High School team, Rags to Riches.

In total, 16 groups took part in Sunday’s event in the shopping centre.

In the running alongside John Hampden Grammar School and Wycombe High School were teams from Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School, The Highcrest Academy, Bourne End Academy, Royal Grammar School, Wycombe Abbey School and Pipers Corner School.

The High Wycombe Area board see the Eden event as one of the highlights of their year, placing an emphasis on the day and organising a briefing session for the teachers and advisers a few weeks before the competition took place.

As well as the main trade stand award, teams were judged for six awards for excellence.

These awards were judged by event sponsors and the Young Enterprise High Wycombe Board at Eden and the winners will then announced at the Area Finals at Bucks New University on March 18.

The six awards are for best manufactured product, marketing, financial management, environmental awareness, corporate image and the Rotary Club of Marlow Award, focusing on how they have worked as a team and overcame any challenges.

The competition was timed for early February to enhance the challenge on teams, with many picking the opportunity to create Valentine’s Day-themed gifts, including handmade cards and gifts.