After more than 30 years keeping people safe on the ground, former Swansea firefighter Keith Miles is now soaring to new heights — quite literally.
He's one of several local entrepreneurs, including the team behind healthy meal takeaway Macro Shack, who are turning ambition into success thanks to Swansea Council's business support service.
Keith, aged 59, has launched his own aerial photography and videography business, Elite Drone Photography, capturing footage of Swansea and beyond.
Originally from Townhill and now living in Pontlliw, Keith served at Swansea Central, Neath and Sketty fire stations before retiring from the fire service.
With help from Business Wales and a Swansea Council start-up grant through the UK Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund, he was able to buy drones and computer equipment, and to gain his drone pilot qualification at night school.
Since launching, Keith has completed drone and video projects for Pontlliw Primary School, Llys Nini, the Velindre Cancer Charity, and Social Butterfly Marketing.
Father-of-two Keith, who also works part-time as a caretaker at Pontlliw Primary School, said:
“Starting a new business was daunting, but Swansea Council's business support team helped me every step of the way.
“I'd love to showcase more of Swansea from above — it's a fantastic place, and I'm proud to call it home.”
Although Shared Prosperity Fund applications for the current financial year are now closed, figures show more than 200 Swansea businesses have benefitted from grant funding in recent years.
Others include Macro Shack, an Orchard Street takeaway specialising in healthy, gym-friendly meals.
Liam Mills, co-owner of Macro Shack, said:
“The pre-start grant enabled us to buy new kitchen equipment. It was speedy to apply for the grant and the council's business support team were very helpful.”
Cllr David Hopkins, Swansea Council's Joint Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Delivery, said:
“These are brilliant examples of how Swansea residents are using our business grants to follow new passions and create exciting local enterprises.
“Their innovation and hard work should be applauded – and credit should also go to our business support team for their tireless dedication behind the scenes to help others succeed.”
Head to www.swansea.gov.uk/businessadvice for more information about Swansea Council's business support service.
