AN inspirational teenager is taking matters into her own hands and preparing for her future by launching a new business.

Eighteen-year-old Carly Griffiths is set to open a new candle shop later this week after struggling to find a job that would fit alongside her studies.

The ambitious teenager, who is also training to be a nurse, was looking for a part-time job to gain experience and a little income while she was continuing her education at Furness College.

However, unable to find a position that would fit around her training, Miss Griffiths refused to be defeated and decided to launch her own shop, The Candle Box.

Located in The Ginnel, in Portland Walk, Barrow, The Candle Box is a “shabby chic” outlet that sells Yankee and Wax Lyrical candles in addition to bath bombs and accessories.

Miss Griffiths said: “I love this shop and I love this street – I just feel as though I’m in the Lakes. I love candles too – I love the whole vibe.”

Despite her young age, owning a business is not an entirely new concept for the teenager, who launched her own candy cart company at the age of 15 .

Miss Griffiths said: “It was the same story – I wanted a job but I struggled because of my age so I started out on my own.

“With me doing the candy cart it’s given me some sort of experience but I’ve also had some help from my dad.”

The shop is due to open on Saturday October 31 with a special Halloween theme and free treats for children.

Miss Griffiths is excited for the launch and is determined to keep seasonal themes running throughout the year.

She said: “I’m quite excited about it.

“It’s going to be Christmas soon and I’m really excited to decorate the shop.”

The young businesswoman is also excited to be working with local firm, Wax Lyrical, based in Lindal, who will be supplying products to the store.

She said: “It’s great that we’ve got Wax Lyrical because they’re local as well.

“It’s important because we’re local people.

“A lot of people slate Barrow but it’s a nice town, everyone knows everybody and it’s nice that we’ve got each other’s backs.”

Carly’s father, Paul Griffiths, said: “We must have the nicest smelling garage in the area. I’m so proud of Carly.

“Most of this Carly has put together herself and she’s known exactly what she wanted from the start.

“She’s been continuing to study for her nursing and she’s been keeping this going as well.”