A Darlington-based small business has received a boost after receiving a social media boost from a former Dragons Den entrepreneur.

Rainbow Dandelion Crochet, who have set up their business in the town, proved the power of social media after approaching retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.  

On Monday (April 1), Sarah Barron, of Rainbow Dandelion Crochet, tweeted the business mogul about her company during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was one of six weekly winners to gain a retweet or repost by Theo to his half-a-million Twitter and Instagram followers.  

The Northern Echo: Sarah Barron, of Rainbow Dandelion Crochet]Sarah Barron, of Rainbow Dandelion Crochet] (Image: RAINBOW DANDELION CROCHET)

The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has over 3,500 #SBSwinners and supports small businesses in the UK.

Business and retail entrepreneur and confessed Shopkeeper, Theo re‐tweeted Sarah's message to his over 500,000 Twitter and Instagram followers and as a result, Rainbow Dandelion Crochet has received hundreds of new followers and orders for their Beginners Mindful Crochet Kit.

They are also profiled on the #SBS website (www.theopaphitissbs.com) which is exclusive to all Small Business Sunday winners.

The Northern Echo: Some of the products from the companySome of the products from the company (Image: RAINBOW DANDELION CROCHET)

Sarah Barron, of Rainbow Dandelion Crochet, has now highlighted how the former Dragons Den businessman has helped her company by sharing the Darlington business on social media.

She said: "I raised the funds to start my business using the fundraising platform Indiegogo, my business was founded on January 1 2024, and from then everything snowballed. 4 months later I have won several awards.

"I am incredibly grateful that people have recognised my hard work and that I am still committed to helping people after having to leave my career in mental health due to their lack of support for my own wellbeing.

"It is truly incredible to have the support from Theo and I cannot wait to receive my certificate at the awards ceremony next year".

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Small business champion and Ryman Stationery, Robert Dyas and Boux Avenue chairman, Theo Paphitis, added: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK. 

"My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings.

"The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Rainbow Dandelion Crochet every success.”