TWO years ago, Teesside couple Geoff and Chris Baxter's lives were in turmoil.

Geoff's 20-year career in manufacturing was cut short by redundancy and the couple were forced to remortgage their home as Geoff's search for a new job proved fruitless.

When it seemed things could not get any worse, Chris's sister died after a long illness.

This tragic event proved to be a catalyst.

Moving back to Middlesbrough to be near Chris's family, and with Geoff unable to find work, the couple decided to open their own business.

With only £35 to their names, the situation did not look promising for the Baxters, but despite the odds, two years down the line, the couple have created a successful manufacturing business serving more than 100 clients across the region.

Baxters Promotions produces plastic promotional goods using recycled materials at its premises in Middlesbrough.

It was registered as a business in August last year and, in a little over a year, has grown to attract high-profile clients such as Teesside steelmaker Corus.

Two weeks ago, Geoff and Chris's achievements were recognised when they won first place and a £7,000 prize in the national finals of Government-backed awards Trading Places.

Geoff, 51, said the last few years had been a rollercoaster journey.

He said: "When you hit middle-age and lose your job, the reality is that it's very difficult to find work.

It was very demoralising looking for a job, so we decided we would start our own business. I have a long career behind me in manufacturing and I wanted to put that to good use."

With help from JobCentre Plus and a grant from West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust and Business Link, the couple started the firm, which offers a one-stop service for promotional items and business gifts.

Baxter Promotions is now looking to move to larger premises to cope with the ever-increasing workload.

Geoff said: "Some nights, you come home thinking you must have a screw lose, that it would be much easier to have a salary job. But the belief and passion in what you are doing drives you on."