Sewing Machine Centre

Running a successful business means different things to different people. To some it means expanding their business and making more money - to others it's being their own boss and making a comfortable living.

Gary Booth started his business on a market stall in Hull with just less than £25 in his pocket and made £35 profit in his first day.

Today, Sewing Machine Centre has an annual turnover of £40,000 and provides specialist haberdashery for Johnson's Dry Cleaners and Churchill Tailors of Doncaster.

Gary had been with the same bank for nearly 15 years, but was tired of all the charges that came with his old account. He changed to Abbey business in 2000 after a friend saw an advert in the paper. Now, over a year and a half later, he is still delighted he switched.

I still can't believe the Abbey business bank account is free. In fact, they pay me to have it by giving me interest on my credit balances, and when you run a small business every penny counts.

Despite the success of his business, Gary wouldn't dream of expanding.

To me, small is beautiful. Hiring staff involves too much paperwork and responsibility, and the only benefit of owning premises is having a window for people to look at. I don't need to generate more business - I am happy with my business the way it is.

Gary's passion outside his business lies in DJ-ing for the local hospital radio station and at a number of different venues in his community. He is also working with the hospital to raise funds to improve their radio equipment.

Abbey business gives me great flexibility. Knowing I can draw money from a cash point or write a cheque and not face expensive charges gives me the ability to make on-the-spot purchases that will benefit my business. Now I don't have to worry about my business account, which gives me time to concentrate on making sure the hospital's patients can hear the music they love.