WRESTLING, BMX bikes and theatrical scenery could help York and North Yorkshire's hopeful young entrepreneurs scoop a top award.

The seven finalists for the local Shell Livewire Young Entrepreneur awards have been named. The fledging businesses will learn their fate at the award ceremony at the Mansion House, in York, on March 12.

The finalists include York philosopher Alan John's brainchild, The Ultimate Fighting Organisation (UFO). Promoting professional wrestling events, Alan, 22, of South Bank, York, hopes his new rules wrestling and choreographed bouts will have a "stranglehold on the Yorkshire wrestling scene".

Shlomi Vorovitchik, of Alpha Solutions, could also win the award for the engineering consultancy's innovative Tourist Information System (TIS), which uses the latest wireless technology to improve the working relationship between tourists, local businesses and the organisations that manage tourist attractions.

Scarborough-based Phold Bike and Skate, run by Alex Goldy, specialises in parts and accessories for BMX and mountain bikes. The shop also repairs all types of bikes.

Rosie Ellis and Matt East, who run Strensall-based Scenecraft UK Ltd are also among the finalists. The pair produce scenery, costumes and props for museums, television and theatres as well as a range of garden features including bird tables and wishing wells.

Other finalists include event manager Sarah Byrne, who recently started Mosaic Events Ltd in York, Sam Ward and James Parry-Jones of telesales company, Yozo Ltd and Haylie Winter of Eden Skincare Centre in Harrogate.

Updated: 12:02 Tuesday, February 24, 2004