Grantham Journal Big Interview: Digital whizz-kid built first website at 13

Aged 17, Angus Lilburn from Pennine Way, Grantham has already created his own web design company.

Named Young Businessperson of the Year at the Grantham Journal Business Awards, he told us more about his work.

Tell us about Diginibble.

I started Diginibble over a year ago - the real motivation and drive for it was the passion I have for design. I’ve always had a burning ambition to start my own business ever since I can remember. The second reason was to make a difference. I was born in Grantham and have seen the improvement people are making to this town. I felt I had to contribute something back. I provide web design, graphic design, branding, logo and identity design, and social media marketing services.

How did you learn these skills?

I taught myself web design from a very early age - I built my first website at 13 whilst at Kings School. It’s just something I have always loved, and I think being so young helped. As for my marketing skills, I’ve learned most from my father. He worked in sales in a pharmaceuticals company for 35 years, so I’ve been able to apply a lot of what he taught me to the digital world.

And you’ve created websites for Eden House Hotel and Eden Wine Bar.

Yes, I was very pleased that Chris and Theresa Duggan gave me the opportunity to do both. They had to present and reflect Eden’s corporate image, so I built them simultaneously. I dismantled the content of one and re-assembled it in a modern format, while the other was built from scratch. I provided some photography too. It was a great experience to work with Chris, Theresa and their staff and I learned a lot from them. It was fantastic to use a bit of flair and creativity as well as some technical know-how. (See www.edenhq.co.uk and www.edenhh.co.uk)

At the awards you talked about putting Grantham on the map digitally.

Yes, the internet has revolutionised the way we all buy, shop and interact with businesses. An online presence is key to the success of any business and one of the best investments you can make to secure the longevity of your company. Social media marketing combined with a modern website widens your customer base.

What are your plans for the future?

To continue following my passion for design. I would like to see myself one day taking Diginibble international, dealing with some of the largest companies in the world. I want my business to become a major employer as I understand how the creation of jobs is key for the continuing development of not only our town, but the rest of the UK. Also I would encourage anyone who has a vision for themselves to take action. I have seen so many people with massive potential give up on themselves. So I challenge you to go and write that book, or start that business, or whatever it is you want to do. Know that it is possible, and don’t ever give up.

* If you would like your business put on the map digitally, contact Angus at hello@diginibble.com or via www.diginibble.com