Chorley chief executive wins Global Entrepreneur of the Year title

A Chorley chief executive of a globally-leading gambling harm prevention consultancy tasted success securing the Global Entrepreneur of the Year award.

The success of the company's founder Paul Buck, came on the same day as EPIC Global Solutions launched its inaugural Activity Report.

It highlighted the global reach of EPIC's success, including engagement with more than 109,000 people in the past year and more than 47 clients served across 24 countries, underlining the true worldwide reach of its mission to make gambling safer and more sustainable.

It's the second time Buck has come home from the event with an award to show for his efforts, having won the 'Entrepreneur for Good Award' at the same event three years ago.

EPIC work in partnership with gambling operators, sports, education and other at-risk sectors to reduce harm.

Founded by Buck in 2013 on the mission to reduce gambling-related harm and promote positive play, the company has evolved into a strategic partner equipping clients with the tools, knowledge and insights to minimise risk, protect wellbeing, and enable gambling to thrive as a safe, sustainable form of entertainment.

Paul said: "It was an amazing event at The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards and I'm hugely honoured to be named the Global Entrepreneur of the Year.

"There were some incredible entrepreneurs, from some even better businesses, on the shortlist, and as ever this award isn’t about me personally, but far more about the EPIC Global Solutions team around me who create huge impact and social value every day across across the globe."

 It was a poignant accolade, however, with the company having suffered a considerable loss the day before the ceremony, after learning of the passing of its chair and lead investor, Mark Fuller, following a year-long illness.

Paul said: "This one is 100 per cent dedicated to Mark Fuller, who sadly passed away less than 48 hours before.

 "Without him, this could never have happened - his friendship and mentorship was so important over the last few years."