Market trader Victor Jackson has been hailed as a recession success story in a meeting of London entrepreneurs.

The 55-year-old from South Norwood decided to set up his stall selling designer trainers after spending 10 months unemployed when he lost his job as a car park attendant.

Despite saying he “doesn’t have many years of working life left”, Mr Jackson took the plunge in setting up his business using advice from Croydon Economic Development Company.

He was recognised at a special Business Link event in central London on February 23, which gave entrepreneurs from across the capital the chance to meet each other and hear inspirational stories.

Nine other Londoners who took part in the job centre plus six month self employment offer were also celebrated on the night.